The San Bartolomé de Tirajana/Maspalomas Council has ordered the immediate removal of illegally installed terraces in kiosks along the popular Paseo de Meloneras in Gran Canaria. The aim is to reclaim public spaces that have been occupied by private businesses without the necessary legal authorisation.
According to La Provincia, the council has issued a formal resolution granting a 10-day deadline for the dismantling of terraces attached to several businesses, including C-3.1 (operated by Cogorsa), the Pingüino Soul ice cream parlour, Bar K1 (Explotur), and Tropical Health Food (Comercial Gordillo).
The municipal resolution is based on a 2018 ruling by the Canary Islands' High Court of Justice, which invalidated the Costa Canaria Modernisation and Improvement Plan (PMM), the framework that had initially permitted these terraces.
The council emphasises that not only was the agreement annulled, but the businesses in question are using more space than agreed and have undertaken unauthorised construction work on the public walkways.
As a result, the council is not only demanding the removal of the illegal structures but also plans to claim outstanding payments from these companies for the unlawful use of public land for private gain.
In addition to the legal infractions, the local government has highlighted serious safety risks posed by the terrace installations. Officials warn that the narrowing of the pedestrian walkway obstructs emergency vehicle access, particularly for fire engines, posing a potential hazard to both people and property in the event of a fire.
With this action, the Maspalomas Council seeks to restore public spaces, ensure compliance with regulations, and enhance safety in one of the island’s most frequented tourist areas.
