The platform advocating for Los Cristianos will take to the streets this Sunday to oppose the planned expansion of the coastal port. The coalition includes a variety of associations, from business groups to cultural and social organisations, as well as local fishermen. All are united against the port infrastructure expansion, citing potential impacts on local mobility and the beach, which is a primary tourist attraction.

Number of Attendees Expected

The president of the platform, Jorge Bello, is cautious regarding expected attendance, estimating around 800 participants. “However, many people have expressed their intention to join us, and we believe the number could reach 1,500,” he shared. “We want this to be a civic event, entirely democratic and devoid of any political undertones. We invite whole families,” he added.

Equal Rights for All Citizens

Bello emphasises that addressing mobility issues is crucial for the platform’s members. He believes that “the residents of La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro also have the same rights to connectivity, quality of life, and everything that any other Canary Island resident enjoys. This is fundamental for their development,” he stated. At the same time, he acknowledges that “there are solutions to traffic problems that do not have to impact us. Furthermore, we have been dealing with this issue for 30 years, and it needs to be resolved now, not in 20 years,” he remarked critically.

Proposals for Immediate Implementation

The community platform seeks to stagger ferry schedules and remove commercial cargo from the Los Cristianos dock. “Our proposals are straightforward and could be implemented immediately,” Bello affirmed. He pointed out that the ports of Granadilla de Abona and Santa Cruz de Tenerife can handle the cargo currently arriving at the southern location. “Both ports are operational, requiring no new investments. I am not suggesting this will happen overnight, but it could be in place within a few months,” he estimated.

Support from Local Authorities

The citizens’ proposals have already garnered unanimous support from the Town Hall of Arona, setting aside political differences. “Now we aim to extend this support to the other municipalities in the south, as what happens in Los Cristianos affects us all. We will then escalate this to the Cabildo, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Port Authority,” he announced.