Pope Leo XIV’s Visit to the Canary Islands: Major Traffic Restrictions Expected
Major Traffic Management Plans
The visit of Pope Leo XIV to the Canary Islands will necessitate one of the largest traffic management operations seen in recent years. The Directorate General for Traffic (DGT) has urged the public to avoid any non-essential travel on 11th and 12th June due to significant mobility restrictions anticipated for security reasons. Additionally, the body recommends that businesses facilitate remote working where possible and encourages employees to take up this option to ease pressure on the road network during the Pope’s schedule in Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
Teleworking Recommendation
The DGT has developed a special plan for regulation and surveillance to manage the impacts resulting from the papal visit. The organisation warns that the movements of the papal entourage, along with a substantial security presence, will cause temporary road closures and traffic limitations at some of the major access points in both provinces. Those planning to attend scheduled events are advised to plan their journeys in advance and to preferably use public transport or designated parking for private vehicles.
Truck Restrictions
Among the most notable measures is the ban on vehicles carrying goods over 7,500 kilograms and those transporting hazardous materials during specific hours on sections of the roads GC-1, GC-3, and GC-31 in Gran Canaria, as well as on the TF-1, TF-2, TF-4, and TF-5 in Tenerife. In Gran Canaria, restrictions will particularly affect the GC-1 between 08:00 and 14:00 on 11th June, as well as during the morning of 12th June. In Tenerife, limitations will extend from 06:00 to 18:00 on Friday, 12th June.
Traffic Disruptions on the GC-1
The traffic management plan includes dynamic circulation cuts coinciding with the Pope’s movements. On 11th June, there will be restrictions on the GC-1 between kilometres 15 and 56 from 10:30 to 11:45, in addition to closures at links towards the GC-500 and limitations in the San José tunnel in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Restrictions are also expected on the GC-3 during the afternoon, while on 12th June, further restrictions will apply to the GC-1 and GC-31 during the early morning hours.
Restrictions in Tenerife
In Tenerife, the main limitations will be concentrated on 12th June. The DGT anticipates temporary closures on the TF-5, TF-13, TF-24, TF-152, and TF-235, as well as access restrictions at various intersections and branches throughout much of the day. Moreover, the right lane of the TF-4 will be reserved for authorised vehicles and buses from 06:00 to 18:00.
Suspension of Road Works
Another measure being implemented will be the temporary suspension of roadworks affecting circulation on the main roads involved in this operation. This will impact several sections of the GC-1, GC-3, and GC-31 in Gran Canaria, as well as the TF-1, TF-2, TF-4, and TF-5 in Tenerife. The DGT reminds everyone that all these restrictions may be subject to change based on the developments of the visit and advises checking for updated information through their official channels before undertaking any travel.
