Granadilla Residents Protest Over Bike Lane Parking Cuts in El Médano
Residents of Granadilla de Abona marched from La Tejita to El Médano this Sunday to protest new cycling infrastructure that has eliminated essential parking spaces and exacerbated local traffic congestion.
Tensions over traffic management in Granadilla de Abona reached a breaking point this Sunday. According to Diario de Avisos, residents held a protest march from La Tejita to the center of El Médano to challenge the local council’s current approach to cycling infrastructure.
The conflict isn't about opposing sustainable transport, but rather the practical impact of recent road changes. The new bike lane in El Médano has eliminated around 100 parking spaces, worsening a shortage in an area already struggling with heavy traffic, particularly on weekends and during the tourist season. Residents argue that the current planning fails to account for the daily needs of those who live and work in the area.
The protest also highlighted an alternative solution: creating a safe cycling corridor to connect Los Abrigos and El Médano. Protesters argue that instead of fragmenting traffic within town centers, the council should prioritize connecting the coast with infrastructure that keeps cyclists safe during longer trips.
This situation highlights a common struggle for coastal towns in the Canary Islands, where the push for sustainability often clashes with high-density urban areas that rely heavily on cars. Residents are now calling on the City Council to rethink its plans and find a better balance—one that supports cycling without sacrificing the parking and accessibility needed for daily life.