€4.7 million upgrade completed on Marbella-Istán road
A key infrastructure project on the Costa del Sol has officially been completed. The transformation of the A-7176, the road connecting Marbella with the inland mountain village of Istán, is now finished following a €4.7 million investment by the Andalusian regional government and Marbella town hall.
The upgraded route is used daily by more than 2,100 vehicles and plays an important role in local life, providing access to residential areas, public facilities and educational centres serving over 1,000 students. It is also a popular route for cyclists, something the new design specifically takes into account.
The works have focused on the urban stretch of the A-7176, covering just under two kilometres. Key improvements include wider lanes throughout the route. Hard shoulders of 1.5 metres and pavements of 2.5 metres have been added on both sides of the road, as well as cycle lanes, significantly improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Four new roundabouts have also been introduced to calm traffic, regulate junctions and reduce vehicle speeds.
Four new roundabouts have been introduced to calm traffic and regulate junctions
In addition to road widening, the project has included new drainage systems and roadside ditches to prevent flooding, along with public lighting, underground electricity, irrigation systems and extensive landscaping.
A total of 71 large and medium-sized trees have been planted, alongside 235 palm trees, 91 additional species and more than 2,400 square metres of grass. New street furniture and clear signposting complete the transformation.
Street furniture and wide pavements
A complex but long-awaited project
According to the town hall, the refurbishment was a complex undertaking carried out in several phases to minimise disruption. In order to widen the road, land had to be acquired in certain areas, including cases of compulsory expropriation. Unforeseen service impacts also led to budget adjustments and an extended timeline.
With clear cycle lanes, zebra crossings and wide pavements the road is about as safe as it could be
Despite these challenges, local authorities have described the project as essential, particularly from a road safety perspective, and a long-standing demand that has now been fully addressed.
The total cost of the works reached €4.7 million, with 60% funded by the Andalusian regional government and the remaining 40% by Marbella town hall.
The junction where the A-7176 joins the main N-340
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Marbella’s long-term appeal
Improved infrastructure continues to be a defining feature of Marbella’s long-term urban strategy. For landmark residential developments along this corridor, such as Epic Marbella and Design Hills by Dolce & Gabbana, this major upgrade adds another layer of practical and aesthetic appeal.
For landmark developments along this road, this upgrade adds another layer of appeal
As the area grows, projects like the A-7176 transformation show how infrastructure investment plays a crucial role in maintaining Marbella’s appeal across the municipality and beyond.
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