The long-awaited Siam Park water park in Gran Canaria is facing at least a two-year delay, according to Alejandro Marichal, Councillor for Urbanism and Tourism in San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
The setback hinges on the approval of a modernisation plan by the Canary Islands Government, an essential step before construction can commence.
Marichal stated that once they give the green light, the local council is prepared to fast-track the necessary permits and licences; however, even under the most optimistic scenario, construction will not start for another two years.
The councillor also took the opportunity to raise broader concerns about the Canary Islands’ future, pointing to the strain caused by sustained population growth. Over the past two decades, the archipelago has seen its population increase by more than 500,000, now reaching 2.2 million residents.
This demographic surge has been most pronounced in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, placing increasing pressure on natural resources and infrastructure.
In response to these mounting pressures, Marichal has floated the idea of introducing access fees to sensitive natural areas, such as the Maspalomas Dunes, as a means of promoting environmental awareness and curbing overuse.
Although the proposal was initially rejected, he insists the conversation about managing tourism's impact on protected areas must continue.
Marichal also emphasised the urgent need for sustainable development across the islands, calling for more controlled urban growth and stronger protections for natural spaces. “If we want to ensure a sustainable future for the Canary Islands, we need to find a balance between development and environmental stewardship,” he said.
As the wait for Siam Park continues, the debate over how best to manage tourism, population growth, and environmental conservation in the Canary Islands remains more relevant than ever.
