Tensions are rising in Málaga over the future of a high-rise hotel set to be built in the port area. The presentation of the final project version took place without the main players — the architect, the head of the port authority, or the city mayor. Despite this, investors have announced a significant increase in the budget, now estimated at 200 million euros. However, it is still unclear which company will manage the new hotel complex.
The largest construction project of the decade
The planned 144-meter skyscraper promises to transform Málaga’s familiar skyline. Over the past decade, the project has undergone numerous changes—from the building’s shape to its cost, which has doubled in that time. Initially, the design called for a cylindrical tower, but now plans feature a rectangular structure. Architect David Chipperfield was unable to personally present the updated design, and his predecessor, José Seguí, has permanently left the project after the concept change.
The development plan includes not only a 382-room hotel, but also a full redevelopment of the surrounding area. The project features a boulevard, a bike path, an observation deck, new plazas, gardens, a congress center, and commercial spaces. The total area to be transformed is 54,000 square meters. Meanwhile, details about the hotel and its operator remain under wraps, and the name of the future tower has not yet been disclosed.
Public Dissent and Legal Battles
From the outset, the proposal to build a high-rise hotel sparked intense reactions among local residents. Over the years, more than 1,400 official complaints have been filed, there have been mass protests, and critical statements have come from civic organizations and experts in architecture and heritage preservation. Opponents of the project are particularly concerned that the new building would disrupt the historic landscape and alter Málaga’s iconic skyline.
Currently, the project is stalled due to two lawsuits filed by a civic platform and the Academy of Fine Arts San Telmo (San Telmo). The final decision on whether construction can proceed rests with the Council of Ministers of Spain, which must determine if the project serves the city’s interests. However, authorities have already stated that they will not address the issue until all legal proceedings are concluded.
Arguments and Prospects for Implementation
Investors emphasize that the project will bring new public spaces to the city and boost development of the waterfront. They insist that the architectural design will blend harmoniously into the port and urban environment, with transparency and dialogue with residents as ongoing priorities. Nevertheless, opposition party representatives and part of the public are demanding an immediate halt to the construction and are calling for a referendum to let city residents have their direct say.
The mayor of Málaga, despite not attending the presentation, expressed support for the idea of a major hotel, considering it important for the city’s tourism and economic development. In his view, the proposed architectural solution successfully integrates the new tower with the historic center and the waterfront.
Timelines and uncertainty
If all legal and administrative hurdles are cleared, construction is expected to begin in 2026. However, experts consider this timeframe overly optimistic given the number of unresolved issues. Once underway, building the complex will take at least three years.
For now, the fate of Málaga’s largest construction project remains uncertain. The city waits in suspense—is its skyline about to change forever, or will this high-profile initiative remain nothing more than plans on paper?
