In a significant move towards enhancing residential living conditions in Fuerteventura, over 19 million euros have been earmarked specifically for the rehabilitation of residential environments. This ambitious initiative not only focuses on the capital, Puerto del Rosario, but also extends its reach to the municipality of Tuineje. During a recent site visit to oversee the ongoing works, Lola García, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, highlighted the critical importance of collaborative efforts between various levels of administration to facilitate this substantial investment. She emphasized that the fund allocation is essential to ensuring access to decent housing for the island’s residents, stating: «More than 19 million euros are directed to the rehabilitation of residential spaces to ensure a dignified living, with similar projects in Puerto del Rosario and Tuineje».
In her discourse, García championed a shift in focus towards optimizing existing built environments rather than expanding into new territory. She articulated a modern vision for addressing housing issues, asserting: «The solution to the housing crisis does not solely depend on new constructions but involves making the best use of available land and offering a renewed chance to existing buildings. This approach will cater to housing needs in Fuerteventura without further consuming land resources».
The Mayor of La Oliva Advocates for Community Well-Being
In alignment with this vision, the mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, expressed his optimism regarding the progress of the rehabilitation tasks. His remarks focused on the direct positive effects these initiatives will have on the local community. He stated: «We are advancing in the rehabilitation of a total of 507 homes between the old town of Corralejo and El Cotillo. Our goal is clear: to enhance the quality of life and well-being of the residents of La Oliva», reflecting the community-oriented outlook that guides these projects.
Canary Islands Drive More Than 4,000 Housing Initiatives Across the Archipelago
The efforts don’t stop in Fuerteventura. Pino de León, the Director of the Canary Islands Housing Institute, reminded stakeholders that a new public housing project comprising 77 units is already underway in Corralejo. Additionally, she mentioned the three major rehabilitation projects planned for the old town and in El Cotillo. De León stressed that the regional government is effectively transitioning from “words to action”, highlighted by concrete interventions across both new developments and the rehabilitation of the existing residential stock.
This robust strategy aims to extend across all the islands in the archipelago, comprising more than 4,000 residential units in progress, which encompass both new construction and rehabilitation efforts. Furthermore, de León pointed to the crucial collaboration among state authorities, the Government of the Canary Islands, the cabildos, and local councils as a cornerstone in tackling the pressing housing crisis prevalent throughout the region.
