In Valencia, senior figures gathered to unpack the province’s funding needs and the role of national budget allocations in driving growth across Alicante. The discussions brought together Félix Bolaños, the Minister of Presence, and Ximo Puig, President of the regional government, with the aim of clarifying how investment decisions at the national level align with Alicante’s economic weight and development potential. The dialogue highlighted a shared concern among local leaders about perceived underfunding and its potential to affect the region’s competitive edge within the national framework.
During the exchanges, the CEV president described a widening gap between announced investments and what becomes part of the General Budget of the State. The focus centered on capital allocations that Alicante’s leadership argues do not adequately reflect the province7s scale and opportunities. The emphasis was on ensuring future budgets more accurately reflect regional needs and stimulate robust, sustainable growth.
Record-Low Investment Budgets for Alicante
Officials reviewed figures presented to the Congress of Deputies at the start of October, noting that investments in Alicante hovered around 160.8 million euros. Critics contend this remains among the smallest totals seen for the province and substantially lower than what demographic and economic indicators would justify. The assessment raises questions about how investment decisions are calibrated to regional realities and calls for a stronger alignment between population, economic activity, and capital deployment.
A photo from the Valencia meeting captured the moment of exchange, underscoring the public visibility of the budget debate. The scene reflected a sense of urgency among business and political leaders to secure a more favorable funding landscape for Alicante.
Transportation infrastructure dominated discussions, with Navarro underscoring the importance of expanding regional air connectivity. He argued that smaller airports deserve a larger share of investment and highlighted rail projects tied to Alicante-Elche airport. The Torrellano corridor is slated for significant improvements, while the current funding pace remains slow. Spending is expected to rise gradually in the coming years to better match the region7s growth trajectory. The projected pattern shows a modest allocation for 2024 and 2025, followed by higher sums by 2026.
Navarro also highlighted ongoing challenges around the Tajo-Segura water transfer and pressed for a clear, committed investment strategy to safeguard water security for the region. Officials note a national tendency to minimize transfers, a stance that has sparked debate among regional authorities about the sufficiency and reliability of water resources for agriculture and urban use.
The Presidency minister promised that on Friday, October 28, proposals to refine the General Government Budgets would be announced, focusing on Alicante7s needs. The plan, described as a package of improvements, would address the province7s investment gaps and ensure that funds reach critical sectors where they can generate the greatest economic return. It was presented as a broad update rather than a narrow adjustment.
There was also an assertion that the revised approach would apply across programs, not just a single initiative. The tone of the discussion suggested a willingness to broaden the scope of funding and to resist piecemeal edits that had previously been proposed.
Government Acknowledges Budget Gaps in Alicante While Business Leaders Intensify Pressure
In the week leading up to these exchanges, Pilar Bernabé, the government delegate for the Valencian Community, described several potential rail and water projects that could be accelerated under the revised framework. The agenda included upgrading a key railway line from Alcoy to Xãtiva, updating the Júcar-Vinalopó transfer, and investing in water reuse infrastructure in La Vall de la Gallinera and Alicante. The proposed corridor improvements and modernization efforts signaled a focused push to modernize essential infrastructure and support regional development.
Officials stress that any enhanced budgetary package must balance multiple priorities, including transport efficiency, water management, and long-term sustainability. The discourse mirrors a broader national pattern where regional voices push for increased capital allocations that reflect population pressures and economic activity. The negotiations emphasize accountability and the alignment of funds with measurable outcomes in infrastructure and public services.
Industry representatives argue that sustained investment is crucial for Alicante7s competitiveness. They highlight the importance of reliable transport links, modern water infrastructure, and strategic allocations that can attract private investment and regional development. The ongoing dialogue points to a future budget that better reflects the province7s role in the national economy and unlocks projects supporting long-term growth.