Architects Challenge Demolition of Santa Cruz Grain Silo, Seeking Cultural Heritage Status
The Official Association of Architects of Tenerife is challenging the Port Authority’s planned demolition of the city’s historic grain silo, arguing the structure is sound and should be preserved as industrial heritage.
The future of the old grain silo in Santa Cruz de Tenerife has reached a critical point following an intervention by the Official Association of Architects of Tenerife (COA). The association argues that the planned 1.5-million-euro demolition is technically unjustified, directly challenging the Port Authority’s claim that the building is in a state of ruin. Seven bids for the demolition have already been submitted to the Public Procurement Platform.
This conflict highlights a growing disagreement over how to manage industrial heritage on port land. While the Port Authority is pushing ahead with its removal plans, the COA has released a technical report by architects Raquel Guanche and Fernando Arocha. Based on project documents and photographs from early 2024, the report concludes that the structure is still sound. The architects note that they have been unable to inspect the building in person due to restrictions imposed by the port.
The situation has become increasingly complicated due to failed mediation. Last November, both sides agreed to a six-month window to discuss alternative uses for the site. The COA claims a formal proposal was made by the Tenerife Free Trade Zone to transform the silo into a technology hub. However, the Port Authority denies receiving this request, despite the fact that both organizations are led by the same person, Pedro Suárez. Frustrated by this lack of communication, the architects have now formally requested that the silo be granted "Property of Cultural Interest" (BIC) status, arguing that its value goes far beyond its original function.
Built in 1965, the silo is a rare remaining piece of the national grain storage network developed during the mid-20th century. Standing over 30 meters tall, the building is known for its rationalist design, featuring large glass surfaces and a reinforced concrete frame. It is currently included in the city’s municipal protection inventory. The COA points to successful urban regeneration projects in countries like Norway and China, where similar industrial structures have been repurposed for cultural, residential, or tourism use. The architects argue that the silo represents an opportunity to preserve a piece of industrial history while integrating it into the modern life of the capital.