Changes in Marbella’s Urban Planning and Commercial Landscape
Over the past eight years, Marbella has seen significant changes in its urban planning and commercial landscape. Rising production costs have led to a shift in plans for the land purchased by investment fund Platinum Estates. Initially, the land was set to house a W brand resort under Marriot, but negotiations are currently underway to upgrade the brand to a higher category.
Marbella’s Prime Beachfront Property
The land in question is considered the best beachfront in Marbella due to its dune-like nature. Despite its current state of disrepair, Platinum Estates plans to transform it into a pristine beach reminiscent of Cadiz, but without the wind. The original budget for the project, initially around 250 million, is now expected to exceed 350 million.
Plans for a Five-Star Luxury Brand
The new project will feature a five-star luxury brand, reducing the initially planned 186 rooms to 150. The rooms will be fewer in number but larger in size to align with the superior brand. Additionally, the flat area of the property is authorized for the construction of up to 206 residential units, but current plans only contemplate approximately 170.
Additional Amenities and Planning Approval
Beyond the hotel, the construction plan includes a beach club, three restaurants, and residents will have access to all the hotel’s services. The planning has been approved, but planning permission has not yet been applied for. An urban project has been submitted to the town hall, and the project has been sent to the directorate general of roads for the development of vehicle access along the A-7 motorway.
Respecting the Dune Environment
The dune environment of the URP-AL-6 sector will be respected and integrated into a landscaping project. This respect for the ecosystem is a condition imposed by the Junta de Andalucía for the definitive approval of the modification of parts of the 1986 PGOU for the Las Dunas Club.
Opposition and Challenges
The project has faced opposition and challenges, including from the association Ecologistas Malaka in 2021, and a suspension order from the Consejería de Fomento, Articulación del Territorio y Vivienda in 2023. Despite these hurdles, the project known as Las Dunas Club was approved in June 2024, with the corrected modifications of the PGOU approved by the Junta.
Long and Complicated Process
The process has been long and complicated, with the project initially announced seven years ago by then-mayor José Bernal. The current mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, had stated that the project would be ready by 2021. However, the project faced delays due to the collapse of Marbella’s town planning department. The project is now back on track, with the conclusion of the dossier for the Las Dunas Club project and the approval of the complete technical document.
