Noise barriers now on AP-7 motorway passing Torremolinos

Ministry of Transport teams have finished construction on the AP-7 motorway in the stretch between Malaga and Torremolinos. Placement involved three long metal acoustic barriers designed to lessen environmental noise impact in this part of the Costa del Sol.

Completion brings an end to works executed in the Malaga-Estepona section spanning kilometres 995.9 to 997.6.

Details of individual acoustic screens

The first screen covers 500 metres from kilometre 997.6 to 997.1 on the left side of the road in the Malaga direction. This structure rises 4.5 metres high and presents a total surface measuring 2250 square metres.

The second screen extends 685 metres from kilometre 997.1 to 996.4, also on the left margin towards Malaga. The height reaches 4 metres while the surface area totals 2,740 square metres.

The third screen measures 648 metres long from kilometre 996.6 to 997.3 on the right side, heading towards Cadiz. Its height stands at 3 metres with a surface of 1944 square metres.

Scale and investment figures

Overall the works add up to more than 1.8 kilometres of acoustic screens and nearly 7,000 square metres of installed area. Investment for these improvements totalled €3.3 million, including value-added tax. Funds originated from European Union sources dedicated to recovery and resilience activities.

Connection to wider noise management efforts

Actions form part of the second phase of the Noise Action Plan. Compliance occurs with the European directive on evaluation and management of environmental noise. Directive goals focus on setting up a common structure to control and lower exposure levels for people living close to major transport routes. Residents in Malaga and Torremolinos gain from reduced noise levels thanks to the new installations.

Vehicle traffic on the AP-7 previously created notable sound volumes in residential zones nearby. New barriers absorb and deflect those sounds away from homes and businesses.

Motorway users continue journeys without interruption as the barriers sit beside the carriageway. Construction proceeded efficiently using metal materials suited for long-term durability in coastal conditions, even if they do rid passengers in travelling cars of a fantastic view of the Med coast and Torremolinos town. The local council coordinated with national bodies to guarantee all specifications met safety and performance criteria.