The Government of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, particularly the Councillor for Public Services and Strategic Planning, Carlos Tarife (PP), continues to advocate for the feasibility of a cable car (with or without an inter-island project next to the Cabildo) connecting the city’s centre to the Park of the Tables (in the Campitos). This initiative could undoubtedly serve as a significant tourist attraction. However, this location has been deteriorating and, alarmingly, is subject to frequent acts of vandalism nearly every day due to a complete lack of oversight. This is despite its reopening just two years ago, following a 13-year closure and an investment of €900,000 for highly publicised renovations by both the Consistory and the Cabildo.
Tenerife possesses only one cable car, and environmentalists continue to question its purpose, particularly when it is intended to facilitate access to the summit of the renowned mountain. The Mayor of Garachico, José Heriberto González (CC), has been attempting, without success, to establish a similar connection between the picturesque historic centre of the Villa and Puerto, as well as the neighbourhoods of Mediaía, La Cuine, and San Juan del Repao. Tarife’s project for Santa Cruz has allocated €60,000 in the 2025 budget earmarked for preliminary planning of this and additional initiatives, which could potentially enhance the municipality and bolster its tourist offerings. Yet, many perceive it as a cumbersome and unnecessary project. The potential appeal is undeniable, but its projected cost of €17.1 million could easily escalate, as observed in previous projects such as the auditorium (which soared from €26.7 million to €74 million, plus an additional €24 million needed for its refurbishment, amid a year of closure). The commitment exhibited by the conservative councillor seems to starkly contrast with the current state of the Park of the Tables, which is intended to be the cable car’s destination before returning to the city.
According to reports from this newspaper and feedback from regular visitors, the recurring scenes at the site are rather disheartening. These include unsightly graffiti on buildings, persistent breakages of bathroom locks, acts of vandalism in the toilets—where cups are filled with all manner of refuse and debris (as evidenced by the images)—and remains of bottles scattered about. The area has become a go-to spot for numerous individuals seeking to enjoy themselves without adhering to stringent civic regulations, amidst a “total lack of security or surveillance,” as expressed by these frequent visitors.
This scenario is not only concerning but is also leading to escalating costs for the local council due to the ongoing necessity for repairs. This is in stark contrast to the announcement made after the site’s reopening in 2022, which aimed to establish specific regulations to protect and respect the area. The City Council stated its intention to “ensure the proper utilisation of the space and prevent vandalism,” an objective that seems challenging without any form of surveillance, as illustrated by the photographs.
Moreover, this situation conflicts with Tarife’s proposal to introduce additional attractions in the park or the plan for reforestation of the thermophilic forest, which was first announced in December 2023.
Regulatory Measures to Combat Vandalism, Police Presence, and Sanctions
These regulations, championed by the Tarife administration, stipulate restricted opening hours for the park, from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm between November and April, and from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm from May to October. Additionally, barbeques may only be used between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm in winter, and from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm in summer, with coal or firewood as the only permissible fuels. The use of portable barbecues is strictly prohibited. Camping, the use of horses, motor vehicles, and bicycles have also been banned, as is reserving areas for tables by placing personal items, among other regulations. Most notably, it was announced that the park would be monitored by Local Police officers and the Montes Unit, and that “anyone who violates the rules or engages in vandalism will be fined, with the possibility of expulsion from the park for uncivil behaviours,” according to the official statement.
However, as reported by concerned users, the area is far from being adequately protected; vandalism has become rampant, and the reality starkly contrasts with the ambitious projects envisioned for one of the city’s most popular destinations, sought by those wishing to enjoy a delightful experience amidst a scenic forest with magnificent views, where the establishment of a nature classroom is also anticipated.
The Tarife administration now shifts the blame to the Canary Islands, claiming ignorance of these incidents and the complaints raised by users. Nonetheless, they have requested a report and will provide a statement once they have received the internal findings.
