Government of the Canary Islands Invests in Housing Rehabilitation and Construction in Fuerteventura
The Government of the Canary Islands is taking meaningful strides towards enhancing housing conditions in Fuerteventura. This initiative is particularly focused on the rehabilitation and construction of housing through various projects that aim to improve the living standards of 507 homes in the towns of El Cotillo and Corralejo. In addition, 200 new properties are currently under construction across Puerto del Rosario and La Oliva, reflecting a robust commitment to addressing housing needs in the region.
Collaborative Efforts Behind the Projects
These ambitious projects are developed in collaboration with multiple local entities, including the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, the La Oliva City Council, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Agenda. The approach is comprehensive, targeting the rehabilitation of residential environments particularly in the historic districts of Corralejo.
The planned renovations will cover various phases, specifically:
- Corralejo Old Town Phase I & II: 262 homes
- Corralejo Old Town Phase III: 107 homes
- El Cotillo: 138 homes
The total investment for these rehabilitation efforts is close to €14 million, generously funded by the European NextGeneration funds.
A Shift From Words to Action
During a recent visit to the ongoing housing projects, Pino de León, the director of the Canary Islands Housing Institute (ICAVI), expressed the urgency and determination of the Executive. She emphasized that the focus is shifting from discussion to tangible actions. This includes not just the construction of new public housing but also the important task of rehabilitating existing residential properties.
De León highlighted that a promotion involving 77 public housing units is currently underway in Corralejo, in conjunction with three other rehabilitation efforts in the same area, alongside the initiatives in El Cotillo.
Coordinated Management of Housing Initiatives
The Government of the Canary Islands plays a crucial role in coordinating these housing initiatives through the ICAVI. They manage selection processes for projects financed by the European funds and direct resources to the appropriate local administrations tasked with execution. The main goal of these interventions is particularly focused on enhancing energy efficiency, which will directly benefit over 500 families in the municipality. It also aims to facilitate access to dignified housing, a pressing need in Fuerteventura.
Widespread Strategy for Housing Across the Islands
Pino de León further mentioned that this housing strategy is being rolled out across all the islands, with over 4,000 buildings in various stages of completion, including both new constructions and rehabilitations. The collaboration between the state, the Canary Government, local councils, and cabildos emerges as a fundamental component in responding effectively to the housing emergency in the archipelago.
Financial Commitment to Rehabilitation
Lola García, the president of the Fuerteventura Cabildo, underscored the significance of inter-administrative coordination that facilitates these investments. She noted that over €19 million has been allocated for the rehabilitation of residential environments across the island, with focused actions taking place in both Puerto del Rosario and Tuineje. García reiterated the critical need for continued investment in rehabilitating existing residential properties as a complement to new construction efforts.
Continuous Improvement Efforts in La Oliva
The mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, highlighted ongoing efforts, stating that they are diligently working on the rehabilitation of a total of 507 homes in both Corralejo and El Cotillo. The community’s well-being and quality of life remain focal points of these initiatives, illustrating a heartfelt commitment to improving living conditions for the residents.
Government’s Commitment to Housing Needs
Supporting this initiative, Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister of Territorial Policy, remarked that these collaborative efforts exemplify how different levels of government can successfully work together to address pressing housing needs. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Spanish Government to these types of initiatives, reflecting a shared vision for a better living environment for all.
Stakeholders in Attendance
The visit to the housing projects also included various officials, such as Victor Alonso, the island’s Social Action advisor, Blas Acosta, the Infrastructure advisor, and María Jesús de la Cruz, the Director for the General State Administration. Their presence signifies a collective investment of interest from multiple stakeholders in the success of these housing efforts in Fuerteventura.
Through focused collaboration and strategic planning, the Government of the Canary Islands is making a significant impact on housing conditions, providing hope for better living standards on the island.
