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Date Published: 01/02/2023

Big plans revealed for high-speed AVE train line in Cartagena

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The Cartagena station will have have three new tracks and the last 750 metres will be underground

Big plans revealed for high-speed AVE train line in Cartagena

Big news has been revealed regarding Cartagena’s new high-speed AVE line this week, which will reach the port city via an underground tunnel for the last 750 metres. The train station will also be expanded with three new tracks to meet the passenger and freight demand, the Board of Directors of the Railway Administrator (Adif) confirmed on Wednesday February 1.

While the work is being completed on this part of the so-called Mediterranean corridor, Adif has proposed that a secondary track be constructed parallel to the existing one, so that there is no disruption to cargo travelling to Escombreras.

One of the biggest undertakings for the new rail line will be burying the last 750 metres of track in an effort to integrate the structure fully into the surrounding environment. The existing viaduct at Torreciega will need to be replaced and accessibility to the district improved, and the future access to the station will also involve the remodelling of Avenida del Pintor Portela (RM-F35 road).

The new road will have two lanes as well as landscaped green areas, a pedestrian path and a bike lane.

Adif believes this plan respects tradition while modernising Cartagena: it maintains the historic station as an icon of the city, while at the same time allowing travellers to connect with the mobility of the future.

The exiting station is listed as a heritage building of the city, so every care will be taken to preserve the historic value while responding to the increased demand of passengers. To this end, the new structure will be attached to the existing one on the same level, but with increased accessibility. This will allow builders to increase the overall surface area of the hall and boarding area without compromising the integrity of the design.

“The new building captures the potential of the natural light of the Mediterranean, reinforcing the sustainability and energy savings of a facility that will have spaces for commercial premises, ticket sales, customer service, toilets and areas for railway uses,” according to Adif.

The extensive project is still in its infancy and although the steps are agreed in theory, the drafting of the preliminary project and the basic and construction project will need to be completed before the works are put out to tender.

Images: Adif

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