La sombra de la central termoeléctrica de Las Salinas
The presence of the Las Salinas Thermoelectric Power Station, owned by Endesa, has loomed large over the housing and urban planning issues in the nearby neighborhood. For decades, the Central has been a silent yet impactful player in the quality of life for local residents, located a mere stone’s throw from their homes. For over twenty years, community organizations have been vocal about the adverse effects of living so close to a heavy industrial facility. Complaints regarding emissions, noise pollution, and vibrations have been filed with municipal authorities, the Cabildo, the Government of the Canary Islands, and even the European Parliament.
In a pivotal move in November 2025, the local government granted a building permit for the partial dismantling of the plant—specifically targeting the unit known as Gas Móvil 1. However, this measure is more symbolic than substantive, as it only impacts a small fraction of the total facility. The power station continues to operate well beyond its technical end-of-life, making its presence a constant factor in daily life for locals. This ongoing operation affects urban aesthetics, public health perceptions, and the real estate value of the neighborhood.
This backdrop sets the stage for the rehabilitation of the Pisos Rosas into something far deeper than just a construction project. For many residents, revitalizing El Charco signifies the formal closing of the chapter on the power station, completing urban renewal efforts already in motion, such as those aimed at Fontán Lobé Street under the municipal plan titled Un Puerto Inclusivo. The community seeks to restore an urban centrality that aligns with its historical significance within the municipality.
Un barrio con identidad propia y valor estratégico
El Charco is not just any neighborhood in Puerto del Rosario; it possesses a unique character and strategic importance. Its layout, proximity to the coast, and significant role in the historical narrative of the city contribute to its strong collective identity. This community is intertwined with recognizable streets, plazas, and landmarks, including the beloved Pisos Rosas, the sports court of the Polivalent Center, and the waterfront at Playa Blanca. Any regeneration plan, local advocates insist, must honor and elevate this rich memory.
In this context, Fuerteventura Avanza ties its motion to a similar vision: that the rehabilitation of the Pisos Rosas serves as a launching pad for a comprehensive strategy. This strategy aims to intertwine dignified housing, quality public spaces, and environmental improvements. The context is ripe for change—thanks to the partial dismantling of the power station, existing urban renewal projects, and the availability of funds from regional, state, and European sources for urban regeneration. Now is the time to reverse decades of neglect and set El Charco on a new course toward a sustainable future.
