This decision affects the initial four-kilometer stretch, which is part of the Malaga-Ronda axis and aims to convert this road into a highway. The Junta de Andalucía has described the situation as a “normal procedure” within the guarantee process activated when a contractual appeal is filed.
The Andalusian Government had previously announced the award of these works, valued at 41.7 million euros, to the UTE formed by Copisa and Arpo Empresa Constructora. This section, located between Casapalma and Cerralba, is vital for access to the Andalusia Technology Park (PTA) and the Guadalhorce Hospital.
The Junta de Andalucía speaks of a “normal procedure” within the process when one of the parties presents a contractual appeal regarding the board's decision.
Although the exact delay this suspension might cause to the start of works is unknown, sources from the Andalusian Government have indicated that it “should not be long.” The appeal arose from a tie between two bidding companies, which the contracting board resolved by using three decimal places instead of two, as reported by El Español.
This section is the most advanced in the reactivation process of the highway, a project that has required almost eight years of management. Additionally, the construction of another four kilometers is planned, currently in the project drafting phase, and the duplication of another four kilometers in the outbound direction from Ronda, a measure requested by the mayor of Ronda, María de la Paz Fernández.
Furthermore, works have begun for access to the Los Pinos urbanizations in Ronda, with a budget close to one million euros, integrated into the general duplication project adjacent to the city of Tajo. For now, these anticipated works will have to await the resolution of the appeal.
