Work has begun on the first phase of improvements to road safety and accessibility at Vega Baja Hospital from the CV-91 in Orihuela. The project, led by the regional Department of Environment, Infrastructure and Territory, covers a 1,020-metre stretch between the San Bartolomé roundabout and the junction with the CV-911.

The scheme represents an investment of €1,020,356 and is expected to take six months to complete. The carriageway will be widened to six metres in each direction to improve traffic flow and allow ambulances to pass more easily in emergencies.

Pavements will be expanded to up to three metres in the busiest sections, and new pedestrian crossings will improve links between parking areas and the hospital. Dedicated bus bays and new shelters will also be installed, addressing long-standing complaints from public transport users.

The project includes resurfacing, upgraded drainage, and the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting. Both directions of traffic will remain open, with only brief closures if needed to prioritise emergency vehicles. Officials say the schedule has been designed to minimise disruption to patients, staff and visitors.