The catastrophic flash floods that have killed at least 72 people in Spain were caused by a destructive weather system in which cold and warm air meet and produce powerful rain clouds, a pattern that is thought to be becoming more frequent due to climate change. Once the floodwaters clear, one of the debates will be what to do with the ravines. In the south of Gran Canaria, several ravines have been targeted for construction for infrastructure projects and tourist developments due to the demand for space.
Some of these constructed ravines include areas intended for road, residential and commercial projects. In the surroundings of Barranco de Maspalomas there is an important tourist infrastructure that includes hotels, shopping centres and residential areas. The area has been adapted with channelling systems for the management of water flow, especially in the rainy season, to prevent flooding in urbanised areas close to the coast. In Barranco de Arguineguín, on the other hand, it has involved a balance between the adaptation of the natural environment and the implementation of control and safety measures. This is particularly important in areas where the morphology of the terrain and proximity to the ocean present challenges in terms of soil stability and water management.
In the south of Gran Canaria, the focus will be on Loro Parque's Siam Park in the El Veril ravine, an area where this theme park is planned and close to Playa del Inglés. The El Veril ravine is an area of special interest in terms of natural risks due to its proximity to the coast and its specific geography. In the case of the presence of large bodies of water, the characteristics of the ravine could influence how the water is directed and dispersed, making it essential to analyse the potential impact and have appropriate mitigation strategies. Being close to sea level and acting as a natural channel, the ravine could allow water to enter at high speed. Ravines tend to channel water inland, which could result in significant flooding in nearby urbanised areas.
The planned Siam Park includes advanced water attractions and leisure areas, all designed with a distinctive Thai ambience, characteristic of the Siam Park brand. As the south of Gran Canaria is a key tourist destination, construction on cliffs can include design elements that blend into the landscape and use sustainable or low-environmental-impact materials. This not only improves structural stability, but contributes to the preservation of the environment.
Construction on ravines in the south of Gran Canaria, although feasible, is a complex process involving both advanced structural engineering and compliance with strict environmental regulations. The construction of Siam Park in Gran Canaria has faced a number of delays due to various legal and administrative obstacles. However, significant progress will be made in obtaining the necessary permits in 2023, and the project is scheduled to open in less than a decade. With significant investment via State Aid and a vision to offer a world-class water park experience, this new attraction is expected to boost tourism in the south of Gran Canaria.
