A court eviction order affects over 30 families who have been living irregularly in the iconic Mr. Leacock building, located on the border between Guía and Gáldar. The affected residents, many of whom are of Moroccan origin and have limited resources, have just over two months to find a solution to avoid becoming homeless.
“"None of us who live here want this."
One resident, who has lived in the area with his family for four years, recounts arriving on the island 25 years ago. After issues with rentals and rising housing costs, he built his home improvisationally. He has invested a significant amount of money and effort into his dwelling and, currently unemployed, is seeking institutional support for himself, his wife, and their three young children.
“"I built my house there for my family. I spent 19,000 euros and a lot of effort to make it."
Another resident, who arrived on the island almost 20 years ago and works in construction, lives alone and has adapted a space of about 20 square meters. Both agree that most inhabitants of the area are in this situation due to a lack of alternatives. Many are regularized and seek assistance from the Social Services of the Guía City Council for food and utility bill payments.
Given the situation, the Guía City Council has requested collaboration from the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Government Delegation to find housing options for these individuals and coordinate the eviction process.
