New Plan Approved, Regional Review Process Begins
Alicante’s City Council has given the green light and initial approval to the draft of the new General Structural Plan (PGE) and its related strategic documents. Defined as the most crucial urban development framework for Alicante in nearly 40 years, the plan has now officially entered the approval process at the level of the Valencian Community. The new blueprint’s core strategy is to transcend administrative boundaries, strengthening Alicante’s role as a central hub for the metropolitan area.
Focus on the A-79 to Build a Two-City Economic Corridor
According to the draft plan, Alicante and Elche have agreed to jointly develop a strategic economic corridor along the A-79 highway. This corridor aims to connect a series of key hubs, including Alicante’s southern industrial zone, the Alicante-Elche International Airport, the IFA exhibition center, Torrellano, and the Elche Business Park. In the future, this area will prioritize high-value-added industries such as technological innovation, modern logistics, and high-end business services.
Light Rail to Spearhead an Integrated Transport Network
To support the economic corridor’s development, the plan proposes a high-capacity public transport line connecting the two cities. The official document specifically recommends a tram system (Tranvía/TRAM) or an alternative public transport solution with equivalent capacity, frequency, and speed. This line will ensure seamless connections with the existing rail network and major passenger hubs. Furthermore, supporting infrastructure is also planned, including park-and-ride facilities, integrated transport hubs, pedestrian walkways, and bicycle networks, which will connect to the “Vía Parque” to complete the city’s second ring road and alleviate traffic congestion.
Extending to Surrounding Towns to Build a Metropolitan Cooperation Network
The new plan’s vision extends beyond the Alicante-Elche dual-city scope, aiming to establish a broader metropolitan network for collaborative development. For core neighboring towns like San Vicente del Raspeig, Sant Joan d’Alacant, and El Campello, the plan emphasizes the seamless integration of green corridors, public transport, and non-motorized transit systems. For the western municipalities of Agost and Monforte del Cid, the focus is on optimizing the western transport corridor, promoting industrial synergy, and enhancing the protection of rural and ecological spaces.
