Canary Islands Government Approves Minor Revision to Arrecife’s Urban Plan

Overview

The Canary Islands government has officially approved a minor revision to Arrecife’s General Urban Plan, specifically concerning parcels R1 in the Los Geranios area. This update aims to increase housing options in the city without causing significant environmental impacts.

Environmental Assessment

The approval follows a comprehensive environmental assessment that concluded the modification will not produce notable effects on:

• local ecosystems
• biodiversity
• landscape

Despite urbanization’s high level of human activity, the protected Canary Island palm remains the only vulnerable species, and measures are suggested to ensure its protection.

This planning tweak mainly:

• adjusts the number of housing units permitted per parcel
• does not change land use or building heights

It seeks to:

• address housing demands
• foster sustainable urban growth
• maintain low environmental risk

Stakeholder Consultations and Environmental Endorsement

Public consultations with:

• health authorities
• water authorities

confirmed no major concerns. However, the water council highlighted the need to ensure sufficient water infrastructure to cope with increased demand.

The government’s competent environmental body endorsed the plan, emphasizing:

• its limited territorial impact
• adherence to national and regional environmental regulations

The approval includes a stipulation that if not implemented within four years, the environmental assessment becomes invalid, requiring a re-evaluation.

Conclusion

This decision marks a balance between:

• urban development needs
• environmental safeguards

aiming for a sustainable expansion of housing in Arrecife.