The final beach, which is predominantly used by residents in the south of Gran Canaria, is set to give way to tourism. Playa de Santa Águeda, located in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Maspalomas), is slated for transformation with the development of a new sports marina, aimed at attracting an increased number of holidaymakers.
Pablo Rodríguez, the Councillor of Public Works for the Government of the Canary Islands, highlighted the significance of this development in a recent statement.
The move aligns with the objectives outlined in the Gran Canaria Island Planning Plan (PIO) of both 2003 and 2022, which designate the area for recreational and tourism purposes.
A Decision Due to Policy Changes
The development follows a decision by the Canary Islands Port Authority to definitively reject the extension of industrial use rights for the Santa Águeda port which has been used by CEISA (Cementos Especiales de las Islas Canarias) for cement production since 1957.
The move has been hailed as a step forward in diversifying the region's economy and enhancing its appeal to international visitors. However, CEISA is not taking the decision lightly. Claudio Piernavieja, the company's general coordinator, announced plans to challenge the decision in court, vowing to pursue all legal avenues to reverse the outcome.
“We will take this matter to every judicial instance necessary; we are determined to see this through to the end,” Piernavieja stated.
Local Opposition and the Fight to Preserve Tradition
The decision has sparked outrage among local residents, who see the industrial use of the port as a bulwark against the spread of mass tourism. Many view the move as a betrayal of their way of life, with the platform Salvar La Bahía y el Pueblo de Santa Águeda taking a leading role in opposition efforts.
“This is a sad day for our community,” stated representatives from the association. “The cement plant has been the only entity to extend a helping hand to this village. We will fight alongside CEISA to protect our environment and preserve the beach as it is.”
The beach holds a special place in the hearts of locals. San Bartolomé de Tirajana’s municipal council acknowledges its significance, describing it as a spot “highly frequented by residents.”
While tourism has been a key driver of Gran Canaria's economy, the debate over Playa de Santa Águeda highlights tensions between preserving local identity and embracing economic development. The transformation of the port into a tourist hub will undoubtedly bring more visitors and revenue to the area, but it also risks alienating the community that has long called it home.
