Arona Mayor Fátima Lemes has confirmed that CCTV cameras will be installed in the most problematic areas of Veronicas by 2027, as part of a wider effort to improve safety in one of Tenerife’s busiest nightlife districts.

Speaking in an interview with Spanish newspaper Diario de Avisos, Lemes said the project remains one of the council’s priorities despite administrative delays that have slowed the process.

Las Verónicas, located in Playa de las Américas, has frequently made headlines due to fights, pickpockets, drugs, and other incidents linked to the area’s nightlife. The issue was brought back into the spotlight recently following the death of a man in the area.

“We are going to install cameras in the highest-risk areas by 2027,” Lemes said, explaining that previous plans were delayed because permits had expired and the original paperwork had lapsed.

Safety Measures Already Underway

The mayor stressed that the council has already introduced several measures aimed at improving security, including new restrictions on parking, physical barriers in key areas and closer cooperation with club owners and local businesses, many of which have invested in private security and surveillance systems.

She also highlighted increased police resources, claiming that Arona has strengthened its Local Police force by 31 officers during the current administration, more than in the previous decade. Local Police continue to work alongside the National Police and the Canary Islands Police, supported by specialist units including the municipality’s canine team.

“Las Verónicas affects all of us, not just local residents, because of the image and impact these incidents have,” Lemes said. “Our officers go in there and work alongside other police forces despite the risks involved.”

Traffic, Housing and the South’s Future

During the wide-ranging interview, the mayor also addressed several other issues affecting Arona and the wider south of Tenerife.

On transport infrastructure, Lemes expressed frustration over delays to the long-awaited third lane project between Las Chafiras and Playa de las Américas, arguing that southern Tenerife has historically been left behind when it comes to major investment.

She also defended her administration’s record on housing, pointing to ongoing projects including 59 public homes in Las Rosas and plans to unlock further developments in La Camella. According to the mayor, the council currently has €8 million available for housing-related initiatives.

Los Cristianos Port and Future Development

Lemes reiterated her support for reducing freight traffic through the Port of Los Cristianos, arguing that goods transport should increasingly be redirected to the Port of Granadilla. She insisted the council will continue defending the interests of residents while working constructively with regional and national authorities.

Looking ahead, she said the first works connected to the planned Los Cristianos transport interchange and the Chayofita underpass project could begin in 2027, with wider construction potentially extending into 2028.

The mayor also reaffirmed her belief that Arona remains the “capital of the south”, citing its growing population, tourism industry and strategic importance within Tenerife.