2 days ago
Spain holidaymakers warned of 'targeted' anti-tourism protest next week
Demonstrators are planning to protest outside a hotel against a new luxury villa complex
Holidaymakers heading to a Spanish island hotspot have been warned they could find themselves in the midst of a huge anti-tourism protest next week. Demonstrators are planning to make their views known outside a hotel in the south of Tenerife as the action against over tourism in the country continues.
The protestors are set to demonstrate over the lack of affordable housing on the popular tourist island and, in particular, about the construction of 240 luxury villas at El Puertito de Adeje. The protest is planned for June 14 at midday.
The Canarian Weekly reports that the demonstrators will drive home to tourists at the hotel their fears 'about the sale of luxury properties in an illegal project'.
They also want to raise awareness of 'how El Puertito is being destroyed' and why 'we must not support businesses that harm the environment.'
The construction of the villas at Cuna Del Alma is set to go ahead despite 50,000 signatures demanding the halt of the work. Protestors have also cited the violations of archaeological protections with the building work.
The local newspaper also said, according to official documents, heavy machinery was seen operating in restricted zones even after the project had been ordered to stop.
There are also concerns over the threat to protected flora.
The June 14 demo has been organised by the activist group Salvar el Puertito and will take place outside the Hotel Baobab Suites in Costa Adeje.
The suites are owned by owned by Belgian businessman Filip Hoste, the promoter behind the Cuna del Alma tourism development.
The Foreign Office has advised British tourists to be cautious and alert if they are caught up in protests.
They said: "Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.
"While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you're near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder."
The upcoming protest is expected to reignite debate over the future of El Puertito and the balance between tourism development and environmental conservation in the Canary Islands.
The hotel complex is served by Jet2, Tui and Easyjet passengers from the UK.
The demonstration comes after tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Spain to protest against housing speculation and to demand access to affordable homes.
Organisers claim that up to 150,000 peple joined the protest in Madrid while smaller demonstrations were held in about 40 cities across the country.
Protesters from Málaga on the Costa del Sol to Vigo in the Atlantic northwest chanted 'end the housing racket' and 'landlords are guilty, the government is responsible'.
