Why is AP-7 so expensive?

According to a report released by the Associated European Motorists, Marbella residents pay some of the highest tolls in Spain. Discounts or free nighttime passage are not available. 

Malaga and the Western Costa del Sol are the hardest hit by three of the most expensive tolls in the country. This directly impacts the mobility of workers and businesses, and the local economy, as well as tourism, of towns such Marbella. In contrast to other regions in Spain, the government has not introduced any subsidies or alternative free routes, and the A-7, which is free, is often clogged with traffic.

The AP-7 motorway, connecting Malaga to Estepona via Marbella, is particularly costly, with tolls reaching up to €14.95 during the peak summer season when tourism and work-related travel increase the most. The stretch of road, heavily used in the summer by Marbella workers, is subject to a 62.5% price hike. However, the Ministry of Transport does not provide any alternative routes, or other measures, that would ease the congestion on the overcrowded A-7.

What are the most expensive toll roads in Malaga Province

The AEA report also highlights the high costs of the AP-46 Alto de las Pedrizas to Malaga stretch, priced at €6.30 for 28 kilometres, and the AP-7 Estepona to Guadiaro section, costing €3.90 for 22 kilometres. These two routes, which are important for residents, tourists, as well as logistics services going to Marbella lack any discounts. In contrast, other regions like Alicante enjoy fully subsidised tolls, and Pontevedra benefits from discounts, with its Puxeiros–Baiona stretch costing just 1.40 euros for 24 kilometres.

Why does the PSOE government not lower AP-7 toll prices?

Marbella’s local government demanded once again the immediate liberalisation or introduction of progressive discounting, as seen elsewhere throughout Spain. Despite a PSOE councillor in Marbella also serving as a Malaga delegate, the socialists have remained silent and failed to speak out for the residents who are facing what is described by the AEA as an “unjust” toll system. The central government argues that the high toll costs are due in part to a contract signed by the former PP government and the concessionaire running the toll roads. Local Costa del Sol PP officials accuse central government leaders, led by PSOE of preferring spending on their coalition partner Andalusia rather than their own region.

Marbella’s tolls might not be the most expensive in Spain per kilometre, but the total cost of a journey is one of the highest. This problem is exacerbated due to the absence nighttime relief and viable free alternatives.