Illegal Construction in Protected Arona Site Sparks Legal Action

The rise of illegal construction in the south of Tenerife has reignited concerns over land protection and the enforcement of planning laws. The environmental group Imastanen recently reported that a house has been built in the Los Ancones area of Arona, despite the land being classified as protected rustic territory.

This site, located near Ichasaga Mountain, is historically and archaeologically significant, featuring remnants of Guanche culture and traditional farming practices. Imastanen claims that construction has continued steadily since March, despite warnings and visits from security forces. The group argues that this shows a lack of effective oversight by the authorities.

Legally, the case falls under the Canary Islands’ Cultural Heritage Law and regulations protecting rustic land, as well as Penal Code provisions regarding land-use and heritage crimes. The group is calling for immediate action, including sealing off the site and demolishing the structure.

Arona City Council has confirmed that the project has no legal permits. Officials stated that the owner repeatedly applied for authorization, but these requests were rejected because the land is protected due to its proximity to a ravine. The Council says it has taken enforcement steps, including filing infringement reports with the Local Police and registering the property’s status with the Land Registry.

The case has now moved beyond local administration. Due to the persistent nature of the violation and the sensitivity of the protected area, the Civil Guard has referred the matter to the Public Prosecutor's Office. While the City Council says it is working to resolve the issue, the situation highlights the ongoing struggle to stop illegal development in areas of high heritage value—a challenge shaped by decades of intense urban pressure in the region.