A significant project, both financially and symbolically, has begun in the municipality of Candelaria on December 27, marking the commencement of the renovation of the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias and its surroundings. This initiative has taken nearly two decades to reach fruition, and after alterations by architect Eustaquio Martínez, the first phase of the three-part project is now underway. This endeavour has an estimated cost of 16.2 million euros, funded by the Tenerife Cabildo, and is projected to last for 36 months.
Over the initial three weeks, the focus has been on clearing the park adjacent to the Los Peregrinos fountain and removing several palm trees and laurels that could not be saved due to illness. A construction site is currently being set up in this area, alongside preparations for work within the Achbinico cave, where a new marine protection wall will be built. Additionally, there will be action taken in the Plaza de Los Artesanos, located in front of the former town hall, involving the relocation of around six new dragon trees to Puntalarga park; however, the tree in one of the adjacent gardens of Plaza de la Patrona, which has a severely damaged trunk, will not be transplanted due to its frail condition.
Another initial task in the Plaza de Los Artesanos includes the demolition of an abandoned structure located between the plaza and the Tapia ravine, which has already been expropriated. Nonetheless, this work hinges on the removal of asbestos by a specialised company before full demolition can commence.
The contractor for the project, Construcciones Sánchez Domínguez-Sando, from Málaga, secured the contract over three competitors and has rented the La Magdalena embankment, located above the Civil Guard barracks, from businessman Antonio Plasencia for the storage of materials and machinery necessary for the revamp of Plaza de la Patrona, which is expected to span three years.
The Candelaria City Council has assured that despite the initiation of construction, the festivities for Patron Saint’s Day on February 2 will proceed as scheduled, as it will not impact the local establishments or the access to and from the basilica.
The Project
The first phase will cover the San Blas promenade, covering an area of 3,431 square metres; the second pertains to the Plaza de la Patrona, encompassing 13,640 square metres; and the third stage will involve the Plaza de Los Artesanos, which measures 2,354 square metres. Moreover, the project will include upgrades to the hydraulic pipelines and sanitation systems in the area. Among the other developments, plans include the establishment of a ramp structure in the Plaza de La Patrona, intended to house a sacred museum, a multifunctional space, and a tourist information centre. The overall constructed area will span 1,073.31 square metres.
The large plaza is set to be repaved, along with the San Blas promenade and Cueva de los Camellos, while Antón Guanche street is to be converted into a pedestrian zone, transforming it into an open linear space at its upper end. Conversely, the underground car park that was part of the initial 2010 proposal has been omitted.
