Malaga-Ronda motorway works underway, transforming regional links

Construction teams have finally begun work on the first section of the Malaga-Ronda motorway. This project will bring better connectivity across Malaga province and support balanced growth between coastal and inland areas.

Better connections to improve daily life

Andalucian President Juanma Moreno led the official start for the 4.2-kilometre dual carriageway stretch from Casapalma in Cartama to Cerralba in Pizarra. The €51 million investment creates two lanes each way with all the latest safety features. Around 30,000 vehicles already use the existing A-357 route daily, so drivers will soon enjoy safer and quicker journeys through the mountains, which will support local communities on the way. It is also hoped it will feasibly expand Malaga’s commuter belt and alleviate the housing crisis in the city.

Housing options expand for families

High property prices on the coastal drive demand affordable inland towns. Costs already reach over €3,700 per square metre in Malaga’s capital. Campillos lists homes at €987 per square metre, Ronda at €1,660, and Antequera at €1,543. Shorter travel times using the new motorway will let workers based near the coast consider these locations for family homes.

Mayors from towns like Canete la Real and Teba speak of how improved roads allow people to return to roots in quieter communities while keeping coastal jobs. Planners see this route easing residential pressure and opening economic doors in the Guadalhorce Valley and Serrania de Ronda.

Phased build schedule moves forward

Builders broke ground on this initial phase after updating designs and approvals. Preparations advance for the next four-kilometre section from Cerralba to Zalea. Later efforts will cover A-367 access routes to Ronda and A-384 improvements near Antequera. Successive stages will complete the full Malaga Ronda Campillos corridor over coming years, building on decades of planning that began in the 1990s and gained renewed focus recently.

Economic growth follows infrastructure

Stronger road links will hopefully draw investment to interior areas and help population recovery in villages ready for expansion. Businesses gain easier access to markets and talent pools. Combined with public transport plans, the motorway encourages new activities and reduces strain on coastal zones.

Local experts describe each completed segment as vital progress toward uniting Malaga’s regions. Residents look forward to practical benefits including reduced commute stress and fresh opportunities for living and working. This development brings positive change for families, workers and communities across the province.

No fixed completion date exists for the full Malaga-Ronda motorway yet. Construction on the initial 4.2 km section between Casapalma and Cerralba has now officially started, and contractors have a period of around three years or up to 46 months for this phase, pointing to a possible finish around late 2029 or early 2030.