After years of challenges, including numerous cases of illegal occupation, residents of Barrio Nuevo, a district near the historic center of La Laguna, are looking to move forward. A recent meeting between the council and a neighborhood delegation has marked the beginning of a joint effort to address deficiencies in security and infrastructure.
“"Illegal occupation has become something natural."
Although occupation remains a concern, especially in the so-called 'Hotel Okupa', drug dealing is currently the most pressing issue for residents, as expressed to municipal representatives. The situation of occupied homes, where dozens of people reside, was also a key point in the analysis of the general state of the neighborhood.
Another area of concern is Domingo Cruz Cabrera Square, the heart of Barrio Nuevo, due to poor parking. Despite being renovated in 2022, the lack of parking has led to vehicles encroaching on areas not designated for this purpose. A future meeting has been agreed upon to address this circumstance.
Additionally, solutions are being sought for the condition of roads and sidewalks, as well as for the local sports center, whose complete renovation is planned, although its execution will depend on the needs of other sports facilities in the municipality. The Canarian wrestling arena also requires urgent intervention, with an investment of 600,000 euros to repair its roof, which will allow for the maximization of activities such as stick fighting and garrote wrestling.
Finally, the Barrio Nuevo Citizen Center suffers from water leaks due to age, despite previous facade repairs. The community hopes that these and other needs will be resolved soon.
