Estepona to Modernise Public Transport with New 10-Year Contract

Estepona is preparing a new 10-year public transport contract, aiming to modernise its bus fleet and network with advanced technology and improved accessibility

Estepona residents can look forward to a significant upgrade in the city's public transport system, as the Town Hall is currently preparing a new tender for the service. This move aims to modernise the bus network, renew the fleet, and incorporate new technology, adapting the service to the city's current and future mobility needs.

The upcoming contract will replace the currently active agreement, which is nearing its end. The draft technical specifications document outlines a planned duration of ten years. This extended period is justified by the substantial investment required for fleet renewal and the integration of new equipment designed to enhance service delivery.

Three Key Bus Routes

The tender proposes a network initially comprising three lines, designed to connect the urban centre with various residential areas and facilities within the municipality. These lines will operate 365 days a year under an integral management system. The routes will serve locations including Estepona Hospital and various urbanisations in the East and West zones.

• Línea 1 ‘Zona Centro’ will be a circular route primarily focused on the town centre, running from the roundabout accessing Urbanización Alcazaba Beach (eastern zone) to Urbanización Beverly Hills (western zone).
• Línea 2 ‘Zona Oeste’ will also be circular, operating from the stop on Avenida Juan Carlos I to Urbanización Bermuda Beach, passing via Estepona Hospital.
• Línea 3 ‘Zona Este’ will be a circular route, with its itinerary extending from the stop on Avenida Juan Carlos I to Urbanización Mar y Monte, located on the road to Benahavís.

A Modern Fleet

A central element of the upcoming contract is the complete renewal of the bus fleet. The technical document specifies a minimum provision of four vehicles for the service, including one reserve vehicle, and stipulates that all new buses must be newly acquired. These vehicles are planned to be non-plug-in hybrids, with a minimum length of ten metres. They will be fully adapted to ensure accessibility for people with reduced mobility, including specific spaces for adapted chairs, climate control, and passenger information systems via illuminated panels.

Technological Advancements

The future service will incorporate a significant technological update. Buses will be equipped with an Operation and Information Assistance System (SAE), allowing for real-time management of the network. This system will include vehicle tracking, service monitoring, punctuality control, and incident management. It will also provide updated information to users, both on board the buses and at stops, detailing lines and waiting times, with the possibility of integration with external applications and systems.

Furthermore, the technical document foresees the implementation of electronic validation and ticket sales systems. This will include payment options via bank card and preparation for the use of cards and systems from the Consorcio de Transporte Metropolitano del Área de Málaga.

The upcoming tender will incorporate criteria aimed at improving the quality and sustainability of public transport. These will include measures for energy efficiency and emission reduction, enhanced accessibility, vehicle safety, intermodality, and new onboard technological systems. Through this new tender, the Town Hall is working to define an urban transport model that can respond to the evolving mobility needs of the city, aiming for a more modern, accessible, efficient, and connected service.