Canelones board approves 21-tower project in Médanos de Solymar despite opposition

A controversial mega-project to construct 21 towers in Médanos de Solymar has received approval from the Canelones Departmental Board, though not without significant opposition. The vote saw 27 out of 31 council members in favor, with all members from the Broad Front and Colorado parties supporting the development, alongside six from the National Party. Four National Party council members, however, withheld their support.

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I cannot say that I am happy, but I am very satisfied with the work and the construction of the synthesis that we have all done.

The project, known as Torres Giannattasio, involves buildings ranging from four to 10 stories. Discussions at the board centered on the project's suitability for the area and the extent of community consultation. Supporters emphasized the potential for job creation and a negotiated reduction in the height of the tallest towers, along with a commitment to allocate 160 housing units to the government's "Entre Todos" program.

Despite the approval, the decision is contingent on further studies and the submission of more detailed plans by the private developers. Cecilia Martínez, president of the board's committee that reviewed the project, expressed satisfaction with the collaborative effort but cautioned that the approval does not set a precedent for similar projects elsewhere. "I cannot say that I am happy, but I am very satisfied with the work and the construction of the synthesis that we have all done," she stated.

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The favorite has to be Mexico.

National Party council member Leonardo Castro viewed the vote as a positive sign of consensus amidst national political tension. However, his colleague Alejandro Repetto explained his opposition by referencing conversations with local residents who felt they were not adequately consulted. Repetto argued that coastal areas should prioritize existing residents seeking an escape from urban density, rather than prioritizing developers' interests. He expressed concern that the project would create a "Malvín Norte or an Euskal Erria" in the area.

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You take into account the history that Mexico has, the football culture that they have, the style that they've had that got them to the knockout stage of the World Cup ... for decades really – that counts for something. And when they play, you see that they're a team that understands each other.

In response, Broad Front council member Isabel Maises countered that residents had been heard, noting that while some oppose such developments, others are eager for solutions to existing vacant lots and unfinished constructions. The debate highlights the tension between development goals, economic benefits, and the preservation of local character and resident concerns.

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Mexico showed against South Africa what a good team that they can be. The way they scored their goals as well, pressing high and winning the ball up high – that was impressive.