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After years of construction and a final bill of €61 million, Torrevieja's new Paseo del Mar shopping and leisure complex is finally ready to open. The doors swing open on Thursday June 11 at 9.30pm, giving residents and visitors their first proper look at what's been taking shape along the port area for so long.

 

A formal inauguration ceremony will follow at a later date, but the opening itself is set to be anything but low-key.

 

The fun really gets going across the following weekend, with activities, entertainment, giveaways and surprises planned on June 12, 13 and 14 for people of all ages, making it a proper city celebration.

 

The complex sits at the heart of a major transformation of the Muelle Mínguez and Paseo de la Libertad waterfront. Historic stonework has been restored, water has been returned to the wharf to recreate its original look and the whole promenade has been pedestrianised. Green space has tripled, with new rows of ficus and palm trees and 4,000 square metres of planted vegetation woven into the design.

 

The final cost came in well above the original estimate, largely due to rising material prices and the full reconstruction of the fish market and customs building. The foundations alone cost €17 million, requiring 511 piles driven mostly to a depth of 42 metres.

 

The complex itself offers more than 2,500 linear metres of seafront promenades and a commercial line-up of 27 units including Neo Cines cinemas, Ozone bowling, McDonald's, Foster's Hollywood, Saona and Amorino. A striking naturalistic pergola standing between 12 and 14 metres high will serve as a concert and events venue.

 

The project is also expected to create 400 direct jobs, with priority given to Torrevieja residents, people from the Vega Baja and those aged over 50.

 

Image: Torrevieja.com