Marbella and Estepona: The Most Affected by Lack of Rail Link to Malaga City
Marbella and Estepona, two major towns on the Costa del Sol, are grappling with the absence of a rail link to Malaga city. These towns are expanding at a pace that outstrips their existing infrastructure. In the previous year, they ranked fourth and second respectively in terms of population growth percentage in Spain. The surge in tourism, coupled with their technological and economic growth, only exacerbates the transportation issue.
Town Halls Demand Solution for Transport Problem
The town halls of both Marbella and Estepona have repeatedly called for a resolution and the initiation of this “necessary” project for the Costa del Sol. Marbella’s mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, has frequently highlighted that Marbella is the only Spanish town with a population exceeding 150,000 that lacks a train service. She has openly called for discussions to develop this infrastructure.
Coastal Train: A Matter of Strategy and Necessity
Muñoz has emphasized that the coastal train should not be a political issue, but rather a matter of strategy and absolute necessity. She has also urged the government to liberalize the toll motorway until the project comes to fruition, citing the A-7 motorway’s congestion as a pressing reason for this essential initiative.
Marbella’s Comparative Disadvantage
The mayor has noted that a region experiencing such remarkable growth should be equipped with all the necessary tools to prevent disorderly expansion. She has also argued that Marbella is at a comparative disadvantage compared to other Spanish towns with similar population densities.
Estepona’s Need for a Train Connection
Estepona’s Mayor, José María García Urbano, has also highlighted that his town, one of the three fastest-growing municipalities in Spain in terms of population, requires a train connection. He emphasized that the region’s growth should be matched with modern and competitive facilities, such as a railway axis that connects this area, which welcomes millions of tourists annually.
