Plans to install surveillance cameras in two of Arona’s busiest areas, Las Veronicas in Playa de las Americas, and El Fraile, have stalled, despite being signed off and having funds available for more than eight years.
The PSOE opposition party say the current coalition, made up of the Partido Popular (PP), Coalición Canaria (CC), and Vox, has failed to act on two ready-to-go plans that had already secured technical approval, funding, and key permits, since they came into power.
The proposals were originally launched under former mayor José Julián Mena. In the case of Veronicas, the project was reportedly fully drafted, tendered, and awarded. The only step remaining was final authorisation from Spain’s Coastal Directorate (Costas).
Now in opposition, the PSOE says the new council “hasn’t moved a single paper in two years” and is keeping the project “locked away in a drawer,” despite growing concern from local residents and businesses who have been demanding security cameras in the area for decades.
A second plan for El Fraile is also said to be ready. The PSOE confirmed it already has authorisation from the Government, but remains on hold as the council has not even launched the tender process.
Former security councillor Francisco Marichal said the lack of action was unacceptable. “This isn’t about promises. These are finished, funded, and signed-off projects. There’s no excuse for the delay,” he said. “Workers are being left in risky areas with no surveillance.”
The opposition is now calling on the Mayor of Arona, Fátima Lemes, to restart both projects as quickly as possible and bring in extra safety measures to protect workers and residents.
