The Department of Ecological Transition commissions Gesplan to draft the project to transform the Parque del Sur into a more sustainable space
The project includes the construction of viewing points, kiosks, sports facilities, dog parks, more efficient use of energy and water and improved connectivity with Sonnenland.
The Department of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Government of the Canary Islands and the City Council of San Bartolomé de Tirajana are working together to create a climate refuge in the Parque Urbano del Sur, which will mitigate the effects of climate change in the area. The Department has contracted the drafting of the project to the public company Gesplan for more than 140.000 euros.
The Minister for Ecological Transition and Energy of the Canary Islands Government, Mariano Hernández Zapata, maintains that this project “will act as a carbon sink”, becoming “a benchmark for green infrastructure on the island of Gran Canaria”, which will provide “more shade, more green spaces and urban biodiversity, as well as being a meeting point for the municipality's residents and visitors”.
Zapata says that this type of action “is essential to move towards a more sustainable and resilient urban model and to meet the challenge of having one tree for every three inhabitants in the Canary Islands, something that we included in the new Law on Climate Change and Energy Transition.”
For his part, Mayor Marco Aurelio Pérez Sánchez emphasises that the municipality is fully committed to sustainable development and climate adaptation. “This project is a firm step towards a much greener and more habitable San Bartolomé de Tirajana, and we are confident that residents and visitors will enjoy a renovated and more attractive natural environment.”
The mayor stresses that the comprehensive actions of the project improve the accessibility, connectivity and sustainability of Parque Sur. “Transit will be facilitated between the park and the neighbouring areas of Sonnenland and the El Palmeral Urbanisation, through pedestrian routes that will include viewing points, rest areas and sports and recreational areas.”
The project of the future Parque del Sur, in detail
The document provides for expanding the park's green space by planting native species adapted to the local climate, capable of providing shade, environmental humidity and thermal comfort. Irrigation facilities, the use of reclaimed water and public lighting will also be optimised. Furthermore, the park's facilities are expected to include automatic public walkways, a terrace kiosk, shaded areas, sustainable street furniture, efficient lighting and a perimeter fence.
The project also includes the creation of sports areas equipped with cardio, strength, cross training and calisthenics equipment, as well as a dog area specially designed for pets to play and relax in. In addition, the latter is expected to have a kiosk terrace, separate areas for small and large dogs, dog circuits, bag dispensers and water fountains.
