Costa del Sol mayors slam central government for state of pot-hole ridden A-7 – demand urgent action

In a united push, the mayors of Estepona, Mijas and other towns in the Costa del Sol demanded that the central government of Spain fix the severe potholes on the A-7, a vital artery. The A-7 motorway’s deteriorating condition has been exacerbated by heavy rains in recent weeks and heavy traffic. This has caused widespread concern about the safety of drivers and mobility.

Poor maintenance increases accident risk

Estepona‘s mayor, José María García Urbano, has formally written to transport minister Óscar Puente, highlighting over 300 problematic spots identified by council technicians. In both directions, the asphalt on this motorway is severely degraded. It sees an average 65,000 cars per day, and up to 100,000 in peak tourist season. “The poor maintenance raises accident risks as drivers swerve and brake abruptly to avoid these hazards,” García Urbano stated in his letter. After receiving increasing complaints from commuters, residents, and lorry drivers who reported ongoing disruptions, Garcia Urbano stressed the urgent need for repairs to ensure safety.

Clear dangers to thousands of users

Ana Mata also criticized the government in her remarks. contacted the government’s subdelegate in Malaga, focusing on deteriorated sections near Faro de Calaburras, La Cala, and El Chaparral. Storms and constant usage have caused deep sinkholes, with patching material being displaced by the storms. This poses “clear hazards” for thousands of users. Mata lamented “alarming” lack of maintenance and demanded that the ministry take immediate action to restore the road surface. She noted that many residents express their concerns via social media.

A-7 is a busy road

Both leaders criticize the wider transport problems in the west Costa del Sol. The A-7 is the main free route in the absence of a coastal railway. Meanwhile, the AP-7, Spain’s highest priced toll road per segment, has seen a price increase of more than 3% since early 2026. This discourages regular use. The A-7 is the only safe route, which impacts commutes to work, family life and leisure.

While the motorway falls under the jurisdiction and responsibility of central government, there’s is legally nothing local councils or regional government (Diputación de Malaga) can do to make the A-7 safer.

Mata offered Mijas’ full cooperation on safety initiatives, while García Urbano warned that delays could worsen the issues over time. The rain is continuing and forecasters predict a wetter February than January. Officials hope that the central government will act quickly to prevent any tragedies along this vital corridor.