The Junta de Andalucia has earmarked nearly €430 million of investment for Almeria in next year’s budget – an increase of almost €12 million compared to the current allocation.
Around one third of the funds will go to the primary sector and water-related initiatives.
The Department of Agriculture and Water will oversee €138.8 million, with approximately €50 million set aside specifically for water policy – a crucial issue for the province.
This includes €34.6million for wastewater treatment, sanitation works, and water supply infrastructure, aiming to secure Almería’s access to water in the long term.
In terms of transport infrastructure, over €24.2 million is allocated to progress the integration of the railway network as it passes through Almeria city.
These funds will support the long-awaited rail tunnelling project, the construction of a new transport hub, and the AVE high-speed station.
The Department for Development, Territorial Planning and Housing will channel €68.3 million into the province. From that, €5 million is reserved for the Port-City project, while more than €13.9 million will go towards roadworks.
A further €25.1 million is earmarked for housing, including €500,000 for eliminating substandard settlements.
One of the standout future-facing projects is the Smart Green Cube at Almeria’s Science and Technology Park (PITA), which receives an initial investment of over €8.5 million. The total investment in this smart infrastructure is expected to exceed €12.1 million between 2026 and 2027.
In the environmental sector, the region has allocated €40.2 million for forest restoration, sustainable development programmes, and conservation projects.
Importantly, the budget includes a renewed €1 million line for the demolition of the controversial El Algarrobico hotel in Carboneras – fulfilling the Junta’s commitment to the central government, pending a final legal decision.
Health infrastructure will also see a boost, with €37.4 million allocated to the sector. Of this, over €6.9 million will be invested in the construction, equipment, and upgrading of healthcare facilities. New-build health centres will account for more than €2.7 million of that total.
The education department, led by Maria del Carmen Castillo, will receive €30.2 million. Around €6 million is planned for improvements to primary schools, while nearly €18.5 million will go towards secondary education and vocational training.
The University of Almeria will also receive €7.6 million in funding for the coming year.
