Accelerated construction of Malaga-Ronda motorway planned
In a significant development for Malaga's transportation network, the regional government has recently approved the construction of a 4.2-kilometre stretch of the Guadalhorce motorway. This section, which connects Cerralba (Cártama) to the Casapalma junction (Pizarra), has been in the planning stages for 16 years, but is now set to become a reality.
The €57 million project aims to improve connectivity between the Guadalhorce Valley, the city of Malaga, and the Costa del Sol, as well as enhance the link to Ronda. The approved motorway segment is part of the Malaga-Campillos-Ronda motorway plan, a broader effort to address traffic congestion in the area.
While the full route of the Malaga-Campillos-Ronda motorway remains undefined, speculation suggests that much of the new road might follow the existing A-357 layout. The construction of this stretch is expected to significantly ease traffic on the A-357 road, particularly for commuters from metropolitan municipalities heading to work or conducting business in Malaga city.
In addition to the approved motorway segment, the regional government has also announced the widening of a 4-kilometre stretch between Ronda and the Los Pinos urbanisation. The status of this project is still in the draughting phase, with regional authorities hoping to expedite the timeline for the process.
It's worth noting that the 4-kilometre stretch between Ronda and the Los Pinos urbanisation is described as a motorway, but appears more like an extension of Ronda's main avenue. The project for an additional 4 kilometres on the Guadalhorce motorway is planned for future contractors.
The motorway extension forms part of the planned improvements to Malaga's infrastructure, a move that is expected to boost economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. However, the exact impact on Malaga Technology Park's accessibility and the usage of the motorway by commuters is yet to be determined.
Patricia Navarro, Malaga's regional government delegate, has suggested that much of the route may follow the existing winding mountain road. The construction timeline for both projects is expected to take about two years, subject to any unforeseen delays or challenges.
As these projects move forward, Malaga residents and commuters can look forward to improved connectivity and reduced traffic congestion in the coming years.
[1] Source: El Mundo, 15th April 2021 [2] Source: Diario Sur, 16th April 2021
In the context of Malaga's infrastructure development, the regional government's announcement of the motorway extension not only includes the Guadalhorce motorway segment but also the widening of a 4-kilometre stretch between Ronda and the Los Pinos urbanisation. These projects, while primarily focused on transportation, are expected to have a positive impact on the regional economy, particularly the financing and growth of industries such as automotive and finance.
