Atlantic Corridor railway plan sets new timelines for Extremadura and Puertollano

The European Commission has released a new work plan for the Atlantic Corridor, outlining the timeline for transforming the railway network in Extremadura and improving the connection between Madrid and Lisbon. Key milestones include the Plasencia-Talayuela high-speed section, which is expected to enter service by late 2028.

While the plan aims to reduce travel times between the Spanish and Portuguese capitals to approximately three hours by 2034, some specific projects face delays. The electrification of the railway line between Mérida and Puertollano has been pushed back from 2028 to 2032.

In response, the Mayor of Puertollano, Miguel Ángel Ruiz, has called for explanations from the Spanish government regarding this delay. Ruiz stated that the postponement is “bad news” for the city, arguing that the infrastructure is vital for industrial development and attracting new large-scale investment projects.