Next stop Motril: Costa Tropical rail connection moves up the agenda

The south coast’s rail network has the potential to offer more options for residents across the Costa Tropical, as plans for better services and new connections return to the Spanish Senate.

Granada and Malaga already have high-speed trains to Madrid and Barcelona, plus Avant services to Malaga and Seville. Now, plans are being made for more frequencies, improved timetables and a direct rail link all the way to Motril, so linking the south coast and Motril Port with high-speed trains.

For coastal residents, a stronger rail connection would offer a faster, more efficient way to reach the wider Spanish network with trains potentially all the way to Barcelona.

One step closer

The latest talks took place this week in the Spanish Senate in Madrid, where a motion called for a firmer timetable and investment plan covering Granada’s outstanding railway projects and services. For Costa Tropical and Axarquia residents, the most eye-catching on that agenda was a railway connection that reaches Motril and its port.

The Port of Motril is still currently without a much needed railway connection, and the proposal has been included among infrastructure priorities identified by business organisations in and around the Granada Province. A rail link could strengthen the coast’s links with the transport network, while making it easier to move people and goods.

Gradually improving connectivity

Meanwhile, work is already taking place elsewhere in the province. Adif, the railways operator, has awarded €22.6 million for a second track on two sections between Archidona and Riofrio and between Illora and La Chana. The work is intended to increase capacity on the high-speed line between Antequera and Granada.

The Loja Bypass is also progressing, together with work linked to electrification and increased capacity. Plans are also being developed for the railway axis towards Almeria, forming part of efforts to improve the Mediterranean Corridor through eastern Andalucia.

For residents of the Costa Tropical and nearby areas, the combination of high-speed services and infrastructure works means Granada’s railway story is starting to move forward at a faster rate, with promises of increasing significantly the value of property on the south coast.