Residents of Avenida Noelia Afonso, situated next to the skate park in Playa de Las Américas, are expressing their grievances about the build-up of litter on this central public thoroughfare. They claim that certain sections of the street, particularly during the summer season and peak holiday period, become “impassable” due to the accumulation of bags and other waste near the bins located in the narrowest part of the avenue. This situation forces both residents and tourists to navigate around the obstructions or switch pavements. Moreover, they highlight that the containers in this location quickly reach capacity due to their proximity to tourist establishments and residential areas, prompting them to call for a relocation of the bins.
The residents find themselves without adequate space to dispose of their waste. Compounding the issue is the fact that along its 300-metre stretch, the road only has two designated bin areas, with the next one located in front of two supermarkets.
One resident mentioned that they have already reached out to the local council requesting additional bins and are awaiting a response. They propose that a potential solution could involve relocating the bins to wider areas of the street, where they do not impede traffic flow and are more accessible to pedestrians.
Some even suggest an alternative street for the relocation, pinpointing Via Siete Islas as a possible site. This avenue intersects with Via Noelia Afonso and runs parallel to the skate park. “We need the bins to be positioned in locations that do not cause obstructions,” another resident remarked.
The affected individuals recall that the accumulation of waste also tarnishes the area’s image, given that it is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the region. Another resident added, “The piling rubbish not only inconveniences residents but also negatively impacts the area’s image. This street is a key thoroughfare in Playa de Las Américas, a highly visited area within the municipality of Arona. These circumstances jeopardize tourists’ favourable perception of our island.”
“Common during summer due to high occupancy”
Clari Pérez, the councillor for Sustainability at Arona Town Hall, communicated to DIARIO DE AVISOS yesterday that the local government is prioritising the improvement of waste collection services. “We are addressing such incidents, as they are among the key responsibilities of my department.” Additionally, the councillor noted that during the summer months, “these issues tend to arise frequently, given the elevated hotel occupancy rates due to the influx of tourists.”
