Torrevieja’s urban bus users could see a revamped service in place before the summer after the local government board confirmed the final award of a ten-year contract to Avanza Movilidad Levante. The company, which already operates the service, secured the deal with an 18% reduction on the base tender of 82.7 million euros. The council will pay 67.8 million euros over the decade, with no option for extension.

The new network will include 12 lines – nine daytime and three night routes – with improved frequencies of under 20 minutes on main routes and less than 15 minutes on the busiest services, including a hospital shuttle. A fleet of 32 buses, 26 hybrid and six electric, will be introduced, although the company has up to a year to fully roll them out.

In addition, the council will invest 1.5 million euros to renew 181 bus stops, some of which will include public toilets and real-time information screens. Four customer service offices will also open across the town.

The overhaul ends decades of free travel for registered residents. Standard single fares will cost 1.50 euros, and around 80% of passengers are expected to pay. Free travel will remain only for over-65s, pensioners and disabled residents through a special pass.