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It has been one of the most talked-about and repeatedly delayed projects in Málaga's recent history. But after more than 20 years of false starts, the city's grand auditorium looks closer to becoming a reality than it ever has before.

 

Mayor Francisco de la Torre announced this week that construction could begin as early as October or November this year, setting out a clear timetable to finally get spades in the ground. The process starts now with a one-month preliminary market consultation, during which construction companies and consortia can review the tender specifications and suggest refinements. A formal bidding period of around two months follows, putting autumn as the realistic target for work to begin. "We're going to be tight," De la Torre admitted.

 

The project has a long and winding history. It was first proposed in 2001 and came close to fruition in 2008, only to be shelved when the financial crisis hit. At that point the estimated cost was €72 million. By 2013 it had risen to €115 million, and today the figure stands at €209 million, partly because the Ayuntamiento spent €9 million purchasing the 30,405 square metre plot at the San Andrés dock in the port, where the building will stand.

 

The finished auditorium will be a substantial venue. The main hall will seat close to 2,000 people for concerts, opera and stage performances, with a 465-seat chamber hall alongside it, plus rehearsal rooms, a library, a restaurant, a shop and 500 parking spaces. The stage machinery alone carries a budget of over €20 million. Construction is expected to take four years.

 

Funding has been the most contentious issue. The central government has refused to contribute the €45 million the Ayuntamiento requested, something De la Torre has not hidden his frustration about. "The minister has shown an absolute lack of interest," he said, adding that he hopes the government "will stop mistreating Málaga." The Andalucían regional government is contributing €25 million and the Ayuntamiento itself €20 million.

 

To fill the gap, the city is turning to the private sector. Naming rights for the building are valued at €40 million, with the main hall at €15 million, the smaller hall at €5 million and a tourist tour at a further €5 million. Cajamar has already expressed interest in the building sponsorship, though De la Torre confirmed it will go to public tender. The Ayuntamiento also hopes to attract between 20 and 30 founding patrons.

 

As for managing the timeline, De la Torre was characteristically direct: "We'll finance it year by year. Each year we'll provide the necessary funding."

 

 

Images: Ayuntamiento de Málaga