Plans for a 144-meter skyscraper at the Málaga port remain mired in uncertainty after more than a decade of debates, lawsuits, and bureaucratic delays. The initiative, envisioned as a new landmark for the city, has sparked a heated debate between proponents of modern urban development and advocates for preserving Málaga’s historic character.
Project background
The idea of building a high-rise on the Dique de Levante first emerged in 2015 with a plan for a 135-meter tower designed by architect José Seguí. The proposed height was later increased to 144 meters, with renowned British architect David Chipperfield joining the team. In 2023, the city council approved a zoning change that allowed building density to increase sevenfold, a move that provoked protests from those seeking to protect Málaga’s historic landscape.
Clash of interests
Opponents of the project, including Defendamos Nuestro Horizonte and the San Telmo Academy of Fine Arts, have filed lawsuits challenging the zoning changes. They argue the skyscraper serves private investor interests and risks permanently altering Málaga’s historic cityscape. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) has also warned of potential threats to the city’s visual identity and architectural heritage.
Supporters of the project, including Hesperia Group CEO Jordi Ferrer and the Qatari company Al Alfia, argue that the skyscraper will create new jobs and modern infrastructure: a 382-room hotel, conference halls, shopping and entertainment areas, as well as public green spaces. Investors emphasize that the project meets technical requirements and urban planning regulations.
Judicial and administrative pause
In October last year, port authorities approved Chipperfield’s project, but the documents were returned by the state agency Puertos del Estado with a request to justify the public importance of the construction and review the tender procedure. As a result, the port temporarily suspended all actions pending a ruling from the Andalucía court.
Deputy government representative Javier Salas points to the need to revise the project in light of changes since 2010, while activists are demanding open discussions with the city’s residents.
The future of the project
The project’s status remains uncertain. Investors continue to advocate for the skyscraper, stressing its potential benefits for the city. At the same time, defenders of Malaga’s historic image and part of the public express concern about its impact on the city’s visual identity. The court’s ruling and further actions by port authorities will determine whether the project becomes a symbol of development or remains a stalled initiative.
At present, the Dique Levante site remains vacant as the city continues to closely monitor developments, awaiting a final decision on how to balance modern construction with the preservation of its historic character.
