The City of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is set to achieve its goal of relocating the traditional Sunday market from the city centre to the outskirts. Merchants will be given the choice between two sites: either in the palmetum car park or along the maritime avenue. In both scenarios, these venues are situated over a kilometre and a half away from the current location (next to the Nuestra Señora de Africa market) and are considered to be in a less central area, on the boundaries of the city.
The Council announced on Thursday that, following two weeks of “searching for sites that ensure the proper conduct of the market”, a decision has been made to relocate the market starting from 16 March. According to officials, the proposals put forth to market representatives on Wednesday afternoon are “the only options that ensure its operation with complete safety.”
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez has emphasised “the significance of the market for the city” and reiterated “the municipal commitment to its ongoing support.” He remarked, “The market is an integral aspect of Santa Cruz’s commercial and cultural landscape, and therefore we have collaborated with merchants to identify a solution that ensures its progression under optimal conditions. These two suggested locations are the ones that ensure its operation, but it is ultimately up to the merchants to choose where it will take place from now on.”
The councillor stated that “regardless of the chosen location, the Council is committed to adapting the area to provide visibility and to promote the activity, ensuring it remains a draw every Sunday.” This, of course, will be away from the centre and the busy market surroundings.
Council member for Public Services, Carlos Tarife, highlighted the enhancements that will be made at whichever new location is selected. “We will not only ensure the survival of the market, but we will also strive to improve its image and functionality. Among other initiatives, we will unify the stalls and increase the visibility of the new site to help sellers and customers adapt.”
The mayor went on to explain that, “if the new site is the Maritime Avenue, the stalls would be arranged at two different heights to enhance visibility, while also providing shade.”
However, neither party has clarified why these “implementation” measures are being enacted in the current market spot.
