Spanish government finally coughs up €6.1 million drainage project to stop Salobreña flooding

Salobreña council leaders have received confirmation of more than €six million from the Spanish government for new drainage infrastructure to prevent flooding in the town centre. This scheme forms part of a new law on urgent measures for damage from adverse weather events. Council representatives described the investment as a response to a historic demand from the town.

Background to flood problems in Salobreña

Insufficient capacity in parts of the current pipe network, lack of decent upkeep and changes made over time to the drainage system cause regular flooding every year, overflows from inspection chambers and effects on the urban layout during episodes of heavy rain. Surface drainage contributions, minor watercourses and irrigation channels meet the existing rainwater network at the northern edge of the built-up area and create repeated hydraulic dysfunctions, and for those living in the area it all adds up.

Path for the new surface and rainwater collector

Construction of the collector will start near the industrial estate and the access road to the sports area before crossing under the CN-340 opposite the sports centre. Route planners have set the line to follow the Cuesta del Comediante and Pago de Sotillos before connecting to the low-water channel of the Guadalfeo River and continuing to the river mouth. This layout addresses the interaction between surface drainage and the irrigation network.

Choice of technical and economic solution

Planners have examined several possible routes and construction methods before selecting the option that provides the best balance of technical performance and cost while remaining compatible with replacement of existing services and with future maintenance needs. Rapid execution of the works also formed part of the decision criteria.

Statements from Salobreña leaders

Mayor Javier Ortega and municipal architect Francisco Morejon set out the details during a press conference and stressed that the project meets a long-standing demand from the town. Planned continuous infrastructure for collection, transport and evacuation of rainwater will raise the hydraulic capacity of the system and reduce the risk of overflows and flooding across the town centre. Local people have waited years for a structural answer to the drainage challenges and a stop to yearly flooding. This might just be it.