Igueste de Candelaria Neighborhood Dispute Over Blocked Access Escalates to Transparency Commissioner

A neighborhood dispute on La Capitana street in Igueste de Candelaria has moved beyond a private disagreement, becoming a significant test case for urban planning and property rights. As reported by El Día, the conflict began when a metal gate and padlock were installed, blocking vehicle access to several properties. The gate was installed under a municipal permit granted in 2021, a decision that has deeply divided the community.

The core of the issue is a clash between local urban planning rules and administrative reality. While the area’s General Urban Development Plan classifies the route as an agricultural path, the City Council maintains that the permit is legal under a "precarious license." Urban Planning Councilor Reinaldo Triviño explains that this authorization is temporary and revocable. He argues that because the surrounding plots have not yet been developed, the council is not legally obligated to open the path or pursue compulsory expropriation.

The affected property owners strongly disagree. Citing deeds dating back to 1964, they argue that a historical right of way exists and has been ignored by the council. Residents are particularly frustrated that the license was granted without a public consultation period. They accuse the local administration of negligence, claiming officials failed to conduct an on-site inspection before approving the gate.

For those who rely on the path to reach their land, the blockade has had a serious impact. Many are now struggling to manage their agricultural work without vehicle access. The situation has also created a hostile environment, with reports of harassment, threats, and property damage, leading residents to seek legal protection.

So far, the residents' efforts to resolve the issue through administrative channels have failed. After unfulfilled promises of expropriation from Mayor Mari Brito and a lack of progress through the Ombudsman, the neighbors have turned to the Transparency Commissioner of the Canary Islands. They hope this body will finally provide an official ruling on the validity of the permit. Meanwhile, the owner who holds the license has declined to comment, leaving the matter to be settled by the courts and regional authorities, with no peaceful resolution in sight.