Spain's Congress has passed the long-debated transfer of the AP-9 motorway to Galicia. The PP and Vox opposed the move, citing concerns over financial guarantees and future negotiations. The law now heads to the Senate.
The Spanish Congress has approved the transfer of the AP-9 toll motorway to the Xunta de Galicia, marking a significant shift in the management of one of the region's most vital transport routes. Despite the measure being part of Alberto Núñez Feijóo's electoral platform since 2009, the Partido Popular (PP) voted against the current version, aligning with Vox and UPN in opposition. The law, which still requires Senate approval where the PP holds a majority, has reignited political tensions over regional autonomy and infrastructure control.
The AP-9, connecting 60% of Galicia's population, has been at the center of political debate for nearly two decades. Previous attempts to transfer its management repeatedly stalled in the lower house, despite unanimous support in the Galician Parliament on five occasions. The current legislation was negotiated by PSOE, BNG, and Sumar, who rejected PP amendments aimed at restoring financial guarantees and clarifying the terms of the transfer. The PP argues that the law, as drafted, undermines consensus in Galicia and delays the effective handover by requiring further negotiations between the Xunta and the central government.
Key points of contention include the financial responsibilities tied to the motorway. The approved text assigns the state any future compensation obligations arising from the years the AP-9 was under central control. This provision is seen by left-wing parties as a safeguard, especially if European courts annul the current concession due to its controversial extension under José María Aznar's government. However, both the Xunta and the PP remain unconvinced, warning that the law could leave the regional administration exposed to unforeseen liabilities.
Socialist and nationalist deputies maintain that the legislation fully respects the agreement reached in the Galician Parliament and ensures the Xunta will not be forced to pay compensation to the concessionaire, Audasa, should the European courts intervene. BNG's Néstor Rego described the transfer as a major achievement for Galicia, while urging the PP to stop misleading the public. In contrast, Vox criticized the PP for losing control of an initiative they originally championed, accusing them of enabling nationalist demands at the expense of state cohesion.
The transfer process is not expected to be immediate, even if the Senate confirms the law. Implementation details must still be negotiated in a joint commission between the Xunta and the central government. The PP has already indicated plans to use its Senate majority to amend the legislation, aiming to restore what it calls the "spirit" of the original Galician proposal. Some within the party have even questioned the constitutionality of the current approach.
This episode reflects broader patterns of political friction in Spain, where regional demands for greater control over infrastructure and resources often clash with national party strategies. The debate over the AP-9 transfer echoes other high-profile disputes in Congress, such as those involving Pedro Sánchez and the PSOE, which have also drawn sharp criticism and public attention. For example, a recent session saw Sánchez defending his party amid corruption allegations, a moment that sparked heated exchanges and was covered in detail in this report on political tensions in Congress.
For context, the AP-9 is the main north-south artery in Galicia, running from Ferrol to the Portuguese border. Its management has long been a symbol of regional aspirations for greater self-governance. The outcome of the Senate debate and subsequent negotiations will determine not only the future of the motorway but also set a precedent for similar transfers in other regions. The issue remains closely watched by residents, businesses, and political observers across Spain.
