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3w ago

Spain Defers AP-9 Concession Decision to Brussels as Deadline Expires

By sending a detailed defense to the European Commission, the government keeps tolls in place and accepts the risk of a referral to the EU court.

AP-9 a su paso por el Puente de Rande.
Una vista del puente de Rande, en Redondela y al fondo, las cabinas de peaje de la Autopista AP-9.
Reunión de la Comisión de Infraestructuras del PPdeG
Image

Overview

  • Transport Ministry submitted a lengthy reply at the two‑month deadline to the Commission’s finding that the 2000 extension was unlawful, opting not to annul the concession now.
  • The practical effect is no immediate change for drivers, and the file now sits with Brussels, which may decide whether to take Spain to the Court of Justice of the EU.
  • Galician leaders across parties and the group En Colectivo condemned the move and renewed demands for rescue, gratuity, or a transfer of control to the region.
  • The Xunta pegs a potential rescue at about €2.356 billion, while the government defends ongoing discounts, including 100% off return trips within 24 hours and savings it tallies at over €375 million since 2018.
  • In a parallel track, the Supreme Court deliberated on alleged abusive tolls during the Rande bridge works with a ruling pending, and the Xunta warned it will sue if Madrid withholds the AP-9 case file.