La Laguna is committed to addressing nearby residents’ noise concerns

Residents living in the historic center of La Laguna are raising concerns about the continuous disruptions caused by frequent festive events in the city center. These disturbances have prompted numerous complaints and led to a formal accusation to the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office of Santa Cruz de Tenerife regarding alleged breaches of acoustic legislation by the local council.

In response to these complaints, the council has assured residents that it takes the well-being and rights of those residing in the Historic Centre very seriously. Various measures have been put in place to address these concerns, including the redistribution of activities, adjustments to event timings, and other actions aimed at striking a balance between cultural vibrancy and community peace.

Concerns about noise levels and the misuse of public spaces were raised during a municipal assembly debate. Pablo Reyes, a residents’ association representative, highlighted their ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life since the association’s formation in 2002. Despite numerous complaints and actions taken by the association, Reyes expressed disappointment that many commitments, such as reducing the number of events, promoting evening programs, and implementing sound limiters, have not been effectively enforced.

Reyes pointed out examples like events during the Fiestas del Cristo that prioritize church services over residents’ needs, casting doubt on the efficiency of volume limiters to curb noise levels. Requests for responses to objections submitted during the ordinance drafting process in 2023 remain unaddressed, while an update to the 2018 noise map has yet to materialize, leaving residents to endure “uncontrolled noise levels every weekend.”

In defense of the local government’s stance on the matter, the first deputy mayor, Badel Albelo, reiterated the council’s commitment to addressing residents’ concerns. He cited ongoing efforts in redistributing activities, making schedule adjustments, and introducing measures to harmonize cultural events with community life. Albelo emphasized the council’s proactive approach to combat noise pollution, with plans for a new ordinance and an updated acoustic map underway.

Despite the challenges, Albelo reassured residents that the council’s initiatives aim to achieve sustainable coexistence without compromising the city’s cultural vibrancy. He affirmed that dialogue with the residents’ association has been ongoing throughout, and measures to reduce noise pollution are being actively implemented. It is evident that a comprehensive and legally robust approach is being taken to ensure the well-being and peaceful coexistence of La Laguna’s residents while preserving the city’s rich cultural heritage.