The Balearic Government has revealed its radical plans for an incredible new train service which would revolutionise travel across Majorca. Estimated to cost 811 million euros (£678 million), more than 100 million euros more than the initial projection, the ambitious project will span some 19 miles, with around six miles planned to pass underground.
The Government is now analysing plans for further expanding the rail network which could include a line from the capital Palma to Son Espases Hospital and then onto the neighbouring municipality of Calvia. Therefore, this would mean a rail line to the popular holiday resorts of Magalluf-Palmanova, Santa Ponsa and Paguera. Rail operator SFM has identified the Palma Bay area as where the “greatest demand is”.
Calvia Town Hall bosses have long wanted a railway with the current administration saying it would be “very pleased” if the plans are given the green light. A possibility of further extension to Andratx, an ancient town nestled in the valleys of the Tramuntana Mountain range, will also be considered.
Analysis for the extension is expected to be completed by the end of this year or early 2026. José Ramón Orta from SFM says a priority is to provide rail lines to areas where traffic jams are most common and where “buses are not an option”.
He adds: “The train is a high-capacity means of transport, so the construction of a new railway line is justified if it will transport a lot of people. And we know that the Palma Bay area is where the greatest demand is.”
At present, the two rail projects that are most advanced in terms of planning are the airport/Llucmajor and Sa Pobla to Alcudia.
It is estimated that 7.5 million people per year could benefit from the changes, alleviating congestion on the roads.
In the 1960s, the railway link between Palma and Llucmajor which once existed was closed.
Brits will have to wait a while to experience this transformational project, however as the Llucmajor line isn’t expected to be inaugurated in 2032, due to the complexity of the project and 2031 for Alcudi.
In fact, the works are not expected to begin until 2028, according to SFM manager José Ramón Orta.
“These are immensely complex works,” he said.