Tenerife’s New Aquatic Sports Center Set to Open in September
The long-awaited Tenerife Aquatic Sports Center (CDAT) will finally open its doors in September, announced Yolanda Moliné (PP), the island’s sports councilor. This comes amid criticism from the PSOE party, which claims the Puerto de la Cruz pool has remained “closed and unused” a year after construction was completed. Federated clubs will get priority access, while the general public must wait until the last quarter of 2024.
Political Tensions Over Delayed Opening
Moliné recently met with local clubs and aquatic sports federations affected by the closure, including CN Martiánez, CN Océano, Probosco, and diving club Anfibios. The meeting aimed to counter what she called “inaccurate and demagogic information” spread by the PSOE. Meanwhile, PSOE’s Tamara Raya criticized the current government for failing to open the facility despite its completion, recalling the pool’s deterioration before its 2015 closure.
Final Preparations Underway
Moliné emphasized the complexity of launching the center, noting the lack of a pre-existing management model. This month, empty facility tests will ensure optimal operation before clubs begin training in September. Public access follows in late 2024. Managed by public company Ideco, the center will offer competitive training, high-performance events, and recreational activities.
Infrastructure and Services
The €13 million facility spans 6,000 square meters in El Peñón, featuring a 50-meter Olympic pool, a 25-meter pool, a 600-seat grandstand, three training halls, locker rooms, offices, a cafeteria, and a multipurpose space. Recent work included legalizing utilities, installing gym equipment, and hiring lifeguards. Moliné stressed coordination challenges but affirmed strong collaboration with local clubs and the Puerto de la Cruz council.
Ongoing Political Debate
PSOE’s Tamara Raya dismissed the announcement as “empty promises,” citing missing safety services, equipment, and usage agreements. Former mayor Marco González (PSOE) accused the current government of neglect, noting swimmers have waited nine years for local training facilities. A motion will urge the council to advocate for residents and athletes. The center, largely funded under PSOE’s Pedro Martín (2019–2023), remains a flashpoint in Tenerife’s political arena.
