Estepona footbridge set for major accessibility upgrade after decades of service

Residents in the Costa del Sol area can look forward to safer and easier crossings thanks to fresh approval for improvements to a vital pedestrian bridge.

Historic campaign that built the crossing

Stella Bosworth spotted serious dangers on the busy A-7 road back in 1984 while working for a British tourism company. Her strong call for action pushed forward plans for a safe footbridge near developing residential zones. Alan James, her then boss, and a leading British developer and chairman of The Experience Group, stepped in to fund and complete the structure within six months when public support stalled. This elevated walkway has protected countless people since then, linking communities on both sides of the busy motorway.

New ramps will transform access

Permission now allows full upgrades focused on accessibility. Oscar Puente, Spain’s transport minister, finally gave permission for the works to start, allowing Estepona jurisdiction over this, what would normally be the Ministry of Transport. Plans include concrete access ramps on each side with a maximum gradient of 12.5 per cent. Elderly users, individuals with reduced mobility, cyclists and parents pushing strollers will gain straightforward passage across the A-7. The local council will cover all construction costs after more than three years of preparations. Technical details came together with input from nearby property owners and residents.

Communities united by better connections

El Paraiso and Benamara stand to benefit directly from smoother links across the motorway. Daily journeys become simpler for hundreds of households in these outskirts of Estepona. Families can move freely between homes, shops and leisure spots without relying on steep stairs. This project builds on the bridge’s original life-saving purpose and reflects ongoing efforts to support growing populations in the region.

Contracting processes have started, with construction expected to follow in the near future. The original 1980s bridge, built with mixed concrete and steel beams on metal supports, will retain its core while gaining modern features for universal use.

Alan James and Stella Bosworth’s early determination continues to shape safer travel for new generations. Their story reminds many how individual resolve combined with community backing can deliver lasting infrastructure. Local users express relief at the progress toward inclusive crossings that strengthen neighbourhood ties.