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Palomares PA-4 urbanisation project: environmental risks, nuclear legacy and coastal regression

Published November 16, 2025 | Category: Infrastructure

TL;DR: The Palomares PA-4 urbanisation project — a plan for 1,600 homes and a hotel on a fragile coastal area — has received regional approval despite flood risks, ecosystem vulnerability, water pressure and proximity to Palomares’ radiological monitoring zone. Environmental groups warn that the project ignores long-term climate projections and coastal regression.

Palomares PA-4 urbanisation project: a new mega-development

Overview

The PA-4 urbanisation sector in Palomares proposes the construction of 1,600 homes and a hotel next to Quitapellejos beach, in one of the most environmentally delicate zones of Cuevas del Almanzora. The regional environmental ruling, issued by the Junta de Andalucía, concludes that the project is “compatible” as long as extensive conditions are met.

Environmental groups argue the opposite, warning that the project could damage fragile coastal habitats, increase flood risks and add population pressure to an area already experiencing water constraints and coastal regression.

Nuclear context surrounding the Palomares PA-4 urbanisation project

The 1966 accident involving US thermonuclear bombs dispersed plutonium dust over several hectares of Palomares. Although partially cleaned, the area still maintains monitored land under the supervision of CIEMAT.

The PA-4 area sits just outside the radiological perimeter, but environmental groups highlight that the contaminated soil has never been fully removed, and future decontamination could be complicated by large-scale residential occupation.

A fragile ecosystem: coastal sand formations, vegetation and biodiversity

The project area contains low coastal sand formations, halophytic vegetation and habitat zones identified as environmentally sensitive. The Spanish ruling explicitly acknowledges the presence of dunas and habitats of community interest, even if these formations are not visually large dunes.

Ecologists warn that proposed “restoration” and “transplanting” measures are unreliable, as coastal sand systems depend on wind dynamics, sediment supply and storm patterns that cannot be artificially replicated.

Water pressure and desalination dependency in Levante Almeriense

Over the past decade, water supply for Levante Almeriense has required emergency interventions. The region depends heavily on the Galasa network and the Carboneras desalination plant. The Junta accepts existing certificates but environmental groups argue that adding an estimated 4,000 new residents increases long-term vulnerability given past shortages and infrastructure failures.

Flood zones, sea-level rise and coastal regression

The Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica (MITECO) identifies the Quitapellejos sector as an area experiencing:

  • coastal regression,
  • stronger seasonal storms,
  • low land elevation,
  • increasing exposure due to climate change.

The original planning documents proposed channelling rainwater through streets towards the shoreline—an approach ecologists consider unacceptable under modern coastal-risk standards.

Urban planning timeline: an old licence in a new climate reality

The PA-4 sector holds longstanding urbanisation rights dating back decades. This older licence underpins the current project, despite being drafted in a period without today’s climate science, sea-level projections or updated coastal protection laws.

Environmental organisations argue that inactivity over such a long time should invalidate the licence; however, the Junta has not questioned its validity.

The municipal position and the political dimension

The Ayuntamiento de Cuevas del Almanzora supports the project, citing a lack of hotel beds, economic benefits and competition with neighbouring coastal towns. The position has remained consistent across political parties.

Environmental groups counter that PA-4 is the wrong location for high-density development due to flood risks, ecosystem fragility and the still-unresolved radiological legacy.

Comparisons with Mojácar, Vera Playa and Terreros

Supporters compare the project to existing developed areas such as Mojácar and Vera Playa. Ecologists argue that these comparisons ignore fundamental differences:

  • Mojácar has a longer and more stable coastline.
  • Vera Playa was urbanised before modern regulations.
  • Terreros shows the risk of speculative projects that leave unfinished streets and infrastructure.

Tourism, hotel capacity and economic expectations

Cuevas del Almanzora lacks hotel accommodation, and supporters argue a new hotel could stimulate tourism. However, ecologists warn that:

  • Water demand will increase.
  • Sewage systems depending on pumping stations are vulnerable to storms.
  • Flood-exposed coastal real estate may be risky long-term.

Conclusion

The approval of the Palomares PA-4 urbanisation project highlights the ongoing tension between economic development and environmental protection along Almeria’s fragile coastline. While technically allowed under strict conditions, the combined risks — coastal regression, flood exposure, ecosystem fragility and proximity to monitored nuclear-contaminated land — raise questions about its long-term sustainability.

For more updates from across the province, visit our Nature & Environment category.

Infrastructure

Junta Reinforces Slope Next to A-1207 Cycle Path in Vera

Published November 28, 2025 | Category: Infrastructure

TL;DR: The Junta de Andalucía is reinforcing a slope next to the A-1207 cycle path in Vera to prevent further landslides and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Junta Reinforces Slope Next to A-1207 Cycle Path in Vera

The Junta de Andalucía has started works to stabilise the slope next to the cycle and pedestrian path along the A-1207 in Vera. The intervention aims to resolve recent small landslides caused by erosion and weather, which had begun to affect the pavement and a busy cycling route.

The works cover the section between kilometre points 0.37 and 0.66 of the road and are funded with more than €48,000. During a visit to the site, the territorial delegate for Public Works and the mayor of Vera reviewed the progress of the project, which is being carried out under the supervision of the regional roads department.

The solution includes installing a prefabricated reinforced-concrete wall parallel to the cycle path. This structure is designed to protect users, stabilise the slope and improve the visual integration of the area. The route is heavily used throughout the year by residents, commuters and cyclists, making the reinforcement an important investment in local safety and infrastructure.


For more infrastructure updates across the province, visit our Infrastructure section.

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Infrastructure

Port of Almeria to Renovate Maritime Station and Modernise Its Architectural Image

Published November 28, 2025 | Category: Infrastructure

TL;DR: The Port of Almeria has launched a comprehensive renovation of its maritime station and surrounding buildings. The project aims to modernise the terminal’s architecture, improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions, with works now entering the design and planning phase.

Port of Almeria to Renovate and Modernise

The Port of Almeria is preparing for a significant transformation. The Autoridad Portuaria de Almería (APA) has initiated a major renovation project for the maritime station and several nearby service buildings, marking an important step within its 2024–2030 Sustainability Strategy, as reported by APA’s official communication channels.

The plan focuses on improving both the architectural appearance and the energy performance of key structures in the passenger terminal area. The initiative aims to reduce the port’s primary non-renewable energy use by at least 30%, lowering emissions and improving thermal insulation while modernising the visual identity of the port’s waterfront.

Port of Almeria Renovation of Four Key Buildings

The renovation project will encompass four structures: the main Maritime Station (8,244 m²), the “Servicios Múltiples” building (647 m²), and two smaller annex buildings used for port services. The goal is to give the area a cleaner, more contemporary architectural look while bringing the buildings up to current environmental standards.

According to APA, the refurbishment will enhance passenger comfort, improve natural lighting, optimise internal layouts and support the move toward a more environmentally responsible port operation.

Tendering Process Underway

The Port Authority has begun the tendering process to develop the full renovation project, including architectural plans, technical documentation, safety planning and construction management. The project carries a base budget of €359,975 (including VAT), with a three-month period allocated for technical drafting and one year for execution oversight.

Companies interested in bidding can attend an official technical site visit scheduled for 4 December, where APA will offer on-site explanations of the buildings to be remodelled.

Part of a Wider Sustainability Push

This renovation fits within a broader shift toward sustainability across the province. Beyond the port, Almeria is seeing progress in areas such as circular economy and emissions reduction — including innovative projects that turn plastic waste into biodiesel. Together, these initiatives reflect a coordinated effort to modernise infrastructure while moving toward a more efficient and environmentally conscious future.

A New Look for the Port–City Interface

The Port Authority emphasises that the architectural improvement of the Maritime Station is not only a functional upgrade but also an opportunity to strengthen the visual harmony between the port and the city of Almeria. By updating façades, improving exterior finishes and enhancing the immediate surroundings, APA hopes to create a more welcoming entrance for ferry passengers and a more attractive urban waterfront.

The project marks the beginning of a wider effort to reposition the port as a modern, efficient and sustainable transportation hub — one that better serves residents, tourists and international travellers.


For more infrastructure updates across the province, visit our Infrastructure section.

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Infrastructure

Murcia–Almería High-Speed Rail: €9.6 Million in New Funding

Published November 27, 2025 | Category: Infrastructure

TL;DR: Spain has approved €9.6 million in new supply contracts for the Murcia–Almería High-Speed Rail, supporting progress on the Lorca–Vera and Vera–Almería sections as the corridor moves toward full assembly and electrification.

Murcia–Almería High-Speed Rail: Progress, Funding and Next Steps

The Murcia–Almería High-Speed Rail has received a new funding package worth €9.6 million from Spain’s Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, managed through Adif Alta Velocidad. The contracts focus on supplying essential technical components required for the next stage of track assembly.

Of this amount, €5.3 million is dedicated to advanced turnouts for the Vera–Almería section. These systems allow high-speed trains to safely change tracks and are crucial for finalizing the alignment.

A further €4.3 million is assigned to expansion joints for the Lorca–Vera segment. These devices absorb rail movement caused by temperature changes, ensuring long-term structural integrity and safety.

The investment adds to previous contracts for sleepers, rail sections, drainage systems and safety equipment, forming a comprehensive package that transitions the corridor into its technical phase.

Construction progress across the Murcia–Almería High-Speed Rail corridor

Work along the nearly 200 km Murcia–Almería corridor is now entering a coordinated phase of track installation, electrification and systems integration. Platform construction is largely completed, opening the way for full assembly.

On the Murcia–Lorca stretch, track laying is already underway, supported by ongoing electrification works that include catenary supports, power-supply structures and transformer installations.

The Lorca–Vera section is preparing for its final assembly phase. Deliveries of sleepers, fastening systems and structural components are ongoing, while contractors finalize tender procedures for on-site assembly.

Between Vera and Almería, construction teams are installing materials previously contracted, including rails, sleepers and turnout systems. This section includes multiple viaducts, access zones and tunnel approaches, all requiring precise coordination.

Across the entire route, progress continues on ERTMS signalling, fibre-optic communication networks, noise protection barriers and energy substations — all of which must be in place before test runs begin.

Technical specifications and engineering highlights

The high-speed line is designed for operations up to 300 km/h, using double standard-gauge track. In select sections, it runs parallel to Iberian-gauge freight lines, allowing simultaneous passenger and logistics use.

Major engineering structures include long tunnels, multi-span viaducts and complex cut-and-cover works. One of the most distinctive achievements is the completed Viaduct of the Ugly Ones, marking a major structural milestone on the Almería side.

Other technical elements include reinforced retaining walls, advanced drainage systems, anti-vibration slabs and concrete structures designed to withstand high-speed dynamic loads.

Urban integration and station connections

At both the Murcia and Almería ends of the corridor, urban integration works play a major role. The transformation of Almería’s rail access — including its underground connection — is coordinated with the high-speed project and managed jointly by Adif and the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

In Almería city, tunnel entrances, ventilation systems and safety corridors are being prepared to interface with the new underground alignment. Once complete, the connection will link directly with the future intermodal station.

Regional benefits: faster mobility and stronger links

The new corridor will significantly improve long-distance travel for Almería Province. Shorter travel times to Murcia, Alicante, Valencia, Catalonia and Madrid will reshape travel patterns for both residents and businesses.

For Vera, the future high-speed station will create a direct link between inland towns and major destinations across eastern Spain. Improved accessibility is expected to boost year-round tourism in areas such as Vera Playa, Garrucha and Mojácar.

Students, workers, medical travellers and seasonal visitors will benefit from faster, more predictable transport options that reduce dependence on long road journeys.

Economic and territorial impact

Infrastructure projects of this scale often stimulate investment around station areas. As the Murcia–Almería corridor advances, interest is already increasing in residential and commercial development near key nodes.

Almería’s agricultural sector stands to gain from improved logistics, as faster freight connections help reduce distribution times to national and European markets.

Local governments also anticipate improvements in public transport integration, road access, and urban renewal tied to the arrival of high-speed services.

Outlook and next steps

With new contracts activated for turnouts, expansion joints, electrification components and signalling systems, the Murcia–Almería corridor is moving decisively toward its final phase. The next stages include full track assembly, systems testing and certification.

Although specific operational dates may shift as work progresses, current indicators show stable momentum toward fully incorporating Almería into Spain’s high-speed rail network.

For official updates, progress documents and technical reports, visit Adif Alta Velocidad and the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

For more updates from across the province, visit our Infrastructure category.

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Infrastructure

Almeria Approves €400,000 Contract to Upgrade Cycling Lanes

Published November 19, 2025 | Category: Infrastructure

TL;DR: The Almería City Council has approved a €400,000 contract to improve and maintain the city’s cycling lanes, including resurfacing, signage upgrades and safety enhancements.

Almería approves €400,000 contract to upgrade and maintain the city’s cycling lanes

The Almería City Council has approved a new €400,000 investment aimed at improving and maintaining the municipality’s cycling lane network. The contract, authorised in a recent meeting of the Junta de Gobierno Local, includes resurfacing works, new signage and safety enhancements along key sections of the city’s existing carriles bici.

According to the local administration, the goal of the project is to extend the lifespan of the current infrastructure, improve comfort and visibility for cyclists, and ensure safer mobility across the city. The works will be carried out between 2025 and 2027, prioritising areas with higher traffic flow and sections where surface wear or outdated signage has been reported.

The plan is part of the municipality’s wider strategy to promote sustainable mobility, encourage everyday cycling and support cleaner transport alternatives within the urban area.

For more updates from across the province, visit our Infrastructure category.

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