The Neoalbéniz project, designed as a cultural extension next to the Alcazaba in Malaga, has experienced significant delays. The works, which should have concluded last year after an initial 14-month period, are now estimated to be completed in the last quarter of this year.
The Mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torre, when asked about the reasons for the delays and the final completion date, stated that "Urban Planning" would have to answer these questions. The first delay was due to the building's location within an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) area, which required archaeological analyses and project modifications to integrate medieval remains found on site.
A second delay arose from an issue with the original formwork system. The rectification has involved the installation of auxiliary scaffolding over the entrance to the Alcazaba parking lot, increasing the cost of the renovation by nearly half a million euros. This increase represents a 21% rise over the initial budget, bringing the total cost to approximately 3.8 million euros.
The mayor also mentioned the complexity of the building's design, describing it as "somewhat sculptural," and the possibility that the archaeological excavation may have affected the start of the foundation work. The 2026 Film Festival will also not be able to benefit from these new facilities.
