New Traffic Diversions in Arrecife as Stormwater Improvement Works Continue
Drivers travelling through Arrecife are being advised to plan ahead this week after new traffic diversions came into effect as part of the city’s ongoing stormwater drainage improvement project.
The latest phase of the works began on Tuesday, 18th August, affecting the busy Vía Medular near the Valterra Health Centre and the PCAm petrol station. The temporary changes are expected to impact both residents making daily journeys and tourists travelling to and from different parts of Lanzarote.
Why Are the Diversions Happening?
The work forms part of a major investment by Arrecife City Council to improve the capital’s drainage system and reduce flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
For many years, several areas of Arrecife have experienced flooding during intense downpours. The new underground stormwater network is designed to capture and redirect rainwater more effectively, helping to protect roads, homes and businesses from future flooding. The city has committed close to €5 million to drainage improvements across a number of flood-prone locations.
Which Areas Are Affected?
The current phase focuses on the section of Vía Medular around:
- Valterra Health Centre
- PCAm petrol station
- The junction with Pérez Galdós Street
- Access towards Carretera a Los Mármoles
Temporary road closures, barriers and diversion signs have been installed, with motorists being redirected while engineers continue laying large underground drainage pipes.
Advice for Drivers
The council is encouraging drivers to avoid the affected stretch of Vía Medular wherever possible.
Instead, motorists are being advised to use the Arrecife Ring Road or other alternative routes to help reduce congestion while construction continues. Visitors travelling between the airport, Costa Teguise, Playa Honda and other parts of the island may wish to allow a little extra travel time, particularly during busier periods.
Why the Work Is Taking Place During Summer
Although the roadworks will inevitably cause some disruption, the timing has been chosen deliberately.
Summer is generally a quieter period for traffic in Arrecife compared with the rest of the year, allowing contractors to complete as much work as possible before traffic volumes increase again after the holiday season. City officials say this approach should help minimise inconvenience in the long term.
A Long-Term Investment for Arrecife
These roadworks are one part of a wider programme aimed at modernising Arrecife’s infrastructure.
Alongside improvements around Puerto de Naos, the city continues to expand its rainwater drainage network in several key locations. Once completed, the system is expected to significantly improve flood prevention and make the capital’s roads more resilient during periods of heavy rain.
What This Means for Tourists Visiting Lanzarote
If you’re staying in Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca or elsewhere on the island and plan to visit Arrecife, there’s no need to avoid the capital. Shops, restaurants and attractions remain open as normal.
However, if you’re driving through the city, particularly via Vía Medular, it’s worth checking your route before setting off and allowing extra time for your journey until the latest phase of the works has been completed.
