The planned pedestrian and cycle bridge over the AP-7 in Orihuela Costa has been reduced in width by one metre, from the 4.3 metres set out in the original tender to just three metres. The shared cycle and pedestrian design could mean cyclists have to dismount because of safety clearance requirements. The project also предусматри three small expropriations.

Orihuela City Council awarded the drafting contract to Anta Ingeniería Civil in November for 72,600 euros, 13,800 euros below the initial budget. The bridge will connect Lomas de Cabo Roig with Calle Creus on the San Miguel road. It is currently the only link between several urbanisations and key services, including beaches, shops and a health centre, despite having just one lane in each direction and no pavements.

The scheme has been a long-standing demand from residents for more than 20 years. It includes LED lighting and an urban design adapted to the surroundings. Final approval is still required from the Alicante Roads Authority before construction can be put out to tender, with works valued at nearly 1.4 million euros.

If the timetable proceeds without delay, construction could begin at the end of this year or early in 2027, with an estimated build time of around five months. However, residents’ group Unidos por la Costa has warned the bridge may not be operational before the next local elections.