Infrastructure
AVE in Almeria: track switch contract defines future operating speeds
Published January 24, 2026 | Category: Infrastructure
TL;DR: A newly awarded ADIF contract defines how fast and how flexibly AVE trains will be able to operate in Almeria. The supply of track switches for the Vera–Almeria section sets concrete speed limits and operational rules long before services actually begin.
AVE in Almeria enters a technical phase that defines future operating speeds
The AVE project in Almeria has reached a stage where decisions are no longer primarily about construction progress, but about how the railway will function once it becomes operational.
ADIF Alta Velocidad has awarded a contract for the supply and delivery of railway turnouts on the Vera–Almeria section, a step that translates infrastructure works into defined operating parameters.
Contract value and execution timeline
The contract has been awarded for €4.37 million (excluding VAT), slightly below the original tender budget of €4.45 million. The execution period is set at 16 months, consistent with the transition from civil engineering to rail systems installation.
The procedure was conducted openly and awarded solely on price, with two bids submitted.
Supplier and European co-financing
The contract was formalised on January 5, 2026 and awarded to Mieres Rail, a specialised manufacturer of railway track components based in Asturias.
The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2021–2027, highlighting the strategic role of the Murcia–Almeria corridor within the broader European rail network.
What is being supplied
The contract covers the manufacture, pre-assembly, transport and delivery of ten complete railway turnouts, including switch blades, crossing elements, point mechanisms and related components.
These elements are essential for network functionality. Turnouts define where trains can change tracks, how traffic is managed and the maximum speeds permitted through each section.
Defined speeds and track hierarchy
The technical specifications included in the contract provide insight into how the AVE line in Almeria is intended to operate.
One high-speed turnout is designed for 350 km/h on the straight route and 220 km/h on the diverging route. Two additional high-speed turnouts are also rated for 350 km/h on straight alignment, with lower speeds when diverging.
In addition, the contract includes conventional turnouts intended for operational manoeuvres, overtaking and traffic regulation, operating at reduced speeds.
Mixed-gauge elements and network integration
Four of the supplied turnouts are designed for mixed gauge, allowing operation on both standard and Iberian gauge tracks. This reflects the need to integrate high-speed services with existing infrastructure during the gradual adaptation of the corridor.
These mixed-gauge components are part of the long-term operational layout rather than temporary solutions, acknowledging the technical complexity of the Vera–Almeria section.
Why these decisions matter
Each turnout is built for a specific role and speed range. These characteristics are fixed within the physical geometry of the track and directly influence signalling systems, traffic capacity and timetable planning.
Once installed, altering these parameters involves substantial cost and disruption. As a result, this contract effectively sets the operational framework under which AVE services will eventually run in Almeria.
These technical choices are a key step in defining how the AVE in Almeria will operate once services begin.
A shift toward operational definition
Earlier stages of the project focused on visible construction milestones. This phase is different: it defines how the infrastructure will actually be used.
What this contract means for the AVE in Almeria
While AVE services have yet to begin, the technical groundwork is being laid in a way that leaves little room for later adjustment. The project is moving from construction planning toward operational reality, governed by engineering choices rather than political timelines.
Follow long-term rail projects, infrastructure planning and transport developments across the province in our Infrastructure section.
Infrastructure
Alvores Proposes New Uses for Almeria Nautical Activities Centre
Alvores Developments seeks approval to transform Almeria Nautical Activities Centre into a multifunctional hub with offices, culture, logistics.
Published 18 July 2026 | Infrastructure
TL;DR: Alvores Developments requests official approval to change and expand the use of the long-closed Centro de Actividades Náuticas building in the Port of Almería for administrative, cultural, logistical, and dining purposes.
Plans to Revamp Almeria Nautical Centre
Request to Alter Building Use
Alvores Developments S.L., the company granted administrative concession of the Centro de Actividades Náuticas building in the Port of Almería in August 2025, has formally requested a substantial modification of its agreement. The firm proposes to repurpose the current facility, which has remained closed for years, shifting its function from a purely nautical activities centre to a versatile space accommodating offices, cultural exhibitions, logistics, and restaurants.
Expansion and Extension Plans
The application submitted calls not only for a change in use but also an increase in the building’s constructed area and the adjoining terrace space. Furthermore, Alvores is asking for an extension of the concession’s duration beyond the original 20-year term granted, with all other key conditions of the concession remaining unchanged. These adjustments aim to better adapt the facility to the new multifunctional concept envisioned by the company.
Public Consultation Process Underway
Following the request, the Port Authority of Almería has published details in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE) to open the plan for public scrutiny. Interested parties have twenty working days from the BOE publication on 17 July 2026 to review the related documentation at the Port Authority offices on Muelle de Levante during regular business hours. They may submit any relevant observations or objections electronically through the Authority’s official online portal.
Background and Future Potential
The Centro de Actividades Náuticas has been out of operation since the regional government of Andalusia vacated the premises several years ago. The original concession included a 20-year usage term with the possibility of renewal. Alvores’ proposed redevelopment intends to give new life to the building by establishing its headquarters there alongside spaces for business activities, cultural events, dining options, and shared services. The proposed changes seek to reintegrate the site as a vibrant hub within the port area, reflecting current urban and commercial dynamics.
Ports Authority Statement
The Port Authority of Almería has confirmed the start of this modification process as a necessary administrative step following the filing of Alvores’ application but has not released detailed information regarding the specifics of the planned changes. The outcome of this public information phase will influence the final decision on the concession’s reconfiguration and future use.
For transport projects, public works and major development updates across the province, explore our latest Infrastructure coverage.
Infrastructure
San Miguel CPR in Pulpi to Get Major Expansion and Renovation
San Miguel CPR in Pulpi will undergo a major expansion and renovation to add classrooms, a gym, and modern facilities for 225 students, funded.
Published 17 July 2026 | Infrastructure
TL;DR: The San Miguel CPR in Pulpí will undergo a major expansion and refurbishment, adding new classrooms, a gym, and modern facilities to support 225 students, funded partly by the European FEDER program.
Pulpi School Expansion and Upgrades
Scope of the Project
The Andalusian Ministry of Education, through its Public Agency of Education, has awarded a contract for the extension and renovation of the Colegio Público Rural (CPR) San Miguel de San Juan de los Terreros in Pulpí, Almeria. The project, valued at nearly €2.84 million and set to be completed within a year, will significantly upgrade the school’s infrastructure and capacity.
New Facilities and Layout
The renovation will transform the school into a type C1 centre with one class line for both early childhood and primary education, accommodating up to 225 pupils. This increase in capacity will allow for the removal of an existing modular unit with two prefabricated classrooms previously used to handle demand.
The extension involves both new construction and internal refurbishment. The school’s footprint will expand onto an adjacent plot, bringing the total site area to just over 5,100 square meters. On the west side of the current building, a new gymnasium with changing rooms and storage will be built. Meanwhile, the south side will host a new two-story building featuring multiple classrooms and communal spaces.
The ground floor of this new building will cater to the youngest students with three versatile classrooms for infants, along with outdoor learning areas, a dining room, and kitchen facilities. The upper floor will provide six adaptable classrooms for primary education plus a workshop room designated for music activities, creating nearly 1,830 square meters of additional constructed space.
Upgrading Existing Structures
Alongside the new buildings, the original school structure will be extensively refurbished. Interior walls will be reconfigured to optimise space distribution. Sanitary facilities will be modernised, electrical systems brought up to current regulations, damaged louvres replaced, and access to the sports court improved.
This original section will house common and administrative areas such as the head teacher’s office, administrative offices, staff room, parent and student association rooms, a library, resource room, IT suite, and maintenance facilities.
Outdoor and Energy Features
Outside, the campus will be arranged with separate playgrounds tailored for infant and primary students, enhancing safety and play opportunities.
Energy efficiency is a key element of the upgrade. The school will be equipped with a bioclimatic system using adiabatic cooling powered by photovoltaic solar energy, combined with aerothermal heating technology. This approach aligns with contemporary sustainability standards.
Funding and Strategic Significance
This project is part of the Andalusian Ministry of Education’s wider Infrastructure Plan, executed by the Public Agency of Education. It receives co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER) under the 2021-2027 programme, showing a commitment to improving educational environments with European support.
With these improvements, San Miguel CPR will offer a modern, spacious, and environmentally conscious setting designed to meet the educational needs of the Pulpí community well into the future.
For transport projects, public works and major development updates across the province, explore our latest Infrastructure coverage.
Infrastructure
Twenty Companies Compete to Build Vera High-Speed Train Station
Twenty companies have bid to build Vera’s high-speed rail station, with construction set to start by late 2026 and finish by mid-2028.
Published 16 July 2026 | Infrastructure
TL;DR: Twenty companies have submitted bids to build Vera’s new high-speed rail station, with construction expected to start by the end of 2026 and finish by mid-2028.
Vera High-Speed Rail Station Project
Competitive Bidding Process
The project to build the Vera-Almanzora high-speed rail station has attracted significant interest, with 20 companies and temporary joint ventures putting forward proposals by the May 28 deadline. Adif, the Spanish railway infrastructure manager, has already begun evaluating the offers to select a contractor. The economic bids range from a low of 13.77 million euros, submitted by the multinational ASCH Infraestructuras y Servicios (successor to Assignia), to a high of 15.50 million euros, offered by Sacyr Construccion. A tender evaluation committee met virtually on July 1 to analyze the financial proposals, and the result will now be forwarded to Adif’s contracting authority for the formal award decision. At this stage, no winner has been announced publicly.
Project Scope and Timeline
The winning contractor will be responsible for completing the station within an 18-month period, roughly a year and a half. If the timeline proceeds without setbacks, construction should commence before the end of 2026 and wrap up by mid-2028. The project entails building a new passenger station spanning approximately 1,850 square meters, including the main building, platforms, parking facilities, and roadway access from the nearby A-352 road linking Vera and Garrucha.
Station Design and Facilities
The Vera-Almanzora station will be situated just south of the historic town center, positioned between the town and the coastal beach area adjacent to the A-352 road. The station building will include a spacious central hall with ticket counters and customer service areas catering to several rail operators. Amenities such as restrooms, waiting rooms, offices, storage rooms, and commercial premises will also be incorporated. The building will house control areas for access, communication systems, and connections to the platforms.
Passengers will access the platforms, which are elevated relative to the main concourse, via an underground passage. The four platforms will extend over 450 meters each and will be covered with protective canopies. To facilitate smooth passenger flow, there will be four elevators, four escalators, two fixed stairways, and four emergency staircases linking the concourse with the platforms.
Parking and Access Infrastructure
Outside the station, a parking lot will be constructed with capacity for at least 150 vehicles, expandable to 200 spaces as needed. The project also includes dedicated areas for bus and taxi stops, improving public transport connectivity. A new access road will connect the station with the A-352 at kilometer 8.05, ensuring smooth vehicular entry and exit for passengers using the station.
This development represents an important future transport hub for Vera and the wider Almanzora area, enhancing the region’s integration into Spain’s high-speed rail network and improving access for both residents and visitors.
For transport projects, public works and major development updates across the province, explore our latest Infrastructure coverage.
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