Local council orders supplementary analysis to ensure government's proposed light tram aligns with parish

Andorra la Vella's local council has commissioned a supplementary study to determine whether the government's proposed tram route fits the parish's urban development model, as part of the ongoing Parish Urban Planning and Organisation Plan (POUP) review.

Council officials stressed the importance of reserving strategic spaces to ensure long-term urban growth remains compatible with the infrastructure and avoids limiting future decisions. The study will assess if the route through the capital is fully appropriate and aligns with local planning frameworks. "Reserving spaces that may prove strategic is essential to prevent mortgaging long-term choices," council sources told media outlets.

The council is working closely with the government, holding regular meetings with State Secretary for Transport David Forné to resolve technical issues and integrate the route within parish limits. They view the government's recent finalisation of a concrete alignment positively, as it offers a solid foundation for analysis and planning of this major national project.

The light tram project will link Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra la Vella, and Escaldes-Engordany, with routes to be incorporated into the sectoral plan for segregated public transport infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes between the parishes. This stems from a national mobility roundtable on 11 December last year, when Forné presented the proposed routes, reserved spaces for depots, and intermodal parking to the three parishes. Councils had until the end of February to provide feedback before formal processing begins in March, aiming for approval before the legislative term ends in 2026.

Meanwhile, Escaldes-Engordany has proposed a minor adjustment to one interchanger's location, intended for potential future extensions to Encamp and La Massana. Council technicians favour an alternative site to the government's initial proposal, which has been submitted for review. Government sources noted the project remains in the technical phase, with more meetings needed before final validation.

Andorra la Vella completed the POUP's deliberative phase last autumn, incorporating citizen input on priorities like affordable housing and better urban habitability. The first draft will open for public allegations between June and autumn this year.