Puerto de la Cruz Residents Demand Action on Hazardous Tree-Damaged Sidewalks

Residents in Puerto de la Cruz are fed up with raised sidewalks caused by growing tree roots. They say the town is falling apart and feel ignored by the local council, which they believe is more interested in attracting tourists than fixing everyday problems.

In areas like La Paz, walking has become hazardous. On Aceviño street, tree roots have buckled the pavement, creating uneven surfaces and cracks that make it difficult for people to walk, especially older residents or those with mobility issues. "It's a constant danger, and it feels like nobody cares," said local resident Vicente García. Another resident, Natalia Acosta, described it as "a danger to pedestrians and another obstacle for people with limited mobility."

The problem isn't just in La Paz. On José María del Campo Llanera avenue, near the town center, the roads and sidewalks are also damaged, making it hard to walk and park. Carmen García, who lives nearby, highlighted the sidewalk in front of the Manolo Santaella sports center as particularly dangerous. "One day, a kid leaving basketball practice might not be paying attention, and something terrible could happen," she worried.

The City Council's Sustainable City department, headed by David Hernández, stated that both streets are included in a wider plan by the Cabildo of Tenerife. This plan aims to regenerate older tourist areas and includes fixing the sidewalks and protecting the large trees on Aceviño street. However, the plan is still in the process of being contracted and waiting for funding.

Despite these plans, residents feel the improvements are too little, too late. "Puerto needs a complete overhaul, not just quick fixes. We want a beautiful town, but we also want it to be a place where those of us who live here all year can actually live comfortably," insisted Carmen García.