Santa Cruz de Tenerife Takes Direct Control of La Abejera Market
Following weeks of uncertainty in the García Escámez neighbourhood of Santa Cruz de Tenerife regarding the future of La Abejera market, the local council has clarified the situation. The municipal concession for the market expired in early June, and the council has announced its intention to directly manage the premises through the Strategic Planning department, with plans to hand responsibility over to the Promotion Society.
Reasons for Direct Management
During a council control meeting this Thursday, Public Services Councillor Carlos Tarife explained the rationale for not issuing a new contract for the management of the market, despite the previous concession to Alvenri Mercados SL having expired in June 2024 and being extended for an additional two non-renewable years.
Tarife detailed that a viability report by municipal technicians advised against a new concession for La Abejera market, as it was anticipated to remain vacant due to a lack of dynamism in its offerings.
Collaboration with Nuestra Señora de África Market
In light of this, as previously reported by Atlántico Hoy, negotiations are underway between the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council and the Nuestra Señora de África market. The aim is to reach an agreement that allows members of the cooperative from that market to utilise the vacant premises at La Abejera for their businesses. This initiative would also provide training opportunities for individuals in relevant trades, including butchers and fishmongers in training.
Revitalising La Abejera Market
Tarife’s objective is to revitalise La Abejera market by filling the empty premises to increase offerings and to manage it directly through the Promotion Society. Currently, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council is overseeing the market, and new services such as security and cleaning have already been implemented.
Moreover, Tarife clarified that the fees paid by tenants will remain unchanged under the new direct municipal management.
