Gran Canaria’s residents have called for a ban on new hotels. (Image: Getty)
The Cabildo has opened a public consultation to gauge its residents’ opinions on the island’s current model as anger and frustration continue to grow.
The survey, which features 11 questions, comes in response to increasing discontent among locals. Tensions hit new heights last year when two large-scale took place amid growing concerns over mass tourism’s damaging environmental and social impact.
Many residents have cited and poverty as major issues.
The Cabildo acknowledges that the topic has “never been so widely debated” and aims to engage the public in shaping a more sustainable future, according to .
One of the most debated questions is: “What changes would you make to Gran Canaria’s current tourism model?” In response, many have called for a moratorium on new and holiday accommodation developments.
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Respondents have argued that limiting hotel expansion is essential to prevent continued strain. (Image: Getty)
Many respondents have argued that limiting expansion is essential to prevent continued strain on local resources and residential housing.
in the Canary Islands, with residents calling for a temporary limit on tourism until legislation to combat the negative effects of overtourism could be introduced.
Between 20,000 and 50,000 people across the islands took part in coordinated protests against the excess tourism.
Around 30,000 people then across the archipelago under the banner: “The Canary Islands have a limit”.
Many have also expressed anger and frustration at the continued housing crisis, which has seen property prices skyrocket as landlords opt for holiday lets over long-term rental options.
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Mass protests against the current tourism model were held in the archipelago last year. (Image: Getty)
The consultation also asks residents about the effects the has had on the . Responses criticise the prioritisation of tourism over residents’ quality of life.
While some respondents acknowledge that tourism generates employment, many have argued that the big economic gains only benefit a select few. They also highlighted an overburden on public services, saturation a loss of cultural identity and environmental concerns including harm to protected species.
In discussing potential solutions, many advocate for halting large-scale tourism projects and . Some specifically call for an end to developments that “destroy the island.”
The consultation results, the Cabildo has said, could play a key role in determining the future direction of the island’s biggest sector.