Villena and Ibi Share Interest in Future Development of Levante Interior Logistics Hub

Villena and Ibi mayors, Fulgencio Cerdán and Sergio Carrasco, respectively, have held a meeting to discuss the current status of the Levante Interior Logistics Hub, a project driven by the capital of the Medio Vinalopó region. Both leaders agreed on the need to resolve the current uncertainty from regional authorities regarding the implementation of the Dry Port in Villena, which is crucial for boosting the industry in the Foia de Castalla and the business network in Ibi, in particular.

The Mayor of Villena informed his Ibi counterpart that the second-level Dry Port project, which does not pertain to provincial capitals, falls under the jurisdiction of the Valencian Government for approval. According to Cerdán, "Villena has everything to become the connection point for the province of Alicante, as well as Albacete and Murcia, with the rest of Europe, passing through Valencia and Barcelona, and with a direct line to Algeciras."

Meanwhile, Ibi Mayor Sergio Carrasco maintains the commitment made by his town hall and the business association to the Levante Interior Logistics Hub project, considering it "strategic" and highlighting Villena's proximity to the municipalities of the Foia de Castalla. Carrasco offered the possibility of "raising this issue in Les Corts through the mediation of the Ibi socialist councillor and regional deputy, Nuria Pina."

Villena's first councillor believes that the development of the Mediterranean Corridor, whose works are already progressing from the La Encina junction (Villena) southwards, is "the perfect opportunity to make the decision. My city is ready. The chosen area borders the Bulilla industrial estate, a space that allows for the creation of industrial land for the logistics sector in large plots and a rail yard where trains up to 900 metres can load and unload."

Cerdán pointed out that the current situation of extra-European international trade requires a rethinking that, in addition to seeking new markets, also necessitates strengthening exchanges within the European Union itself. For this, more efficient infrastructures such as the trans-European rail networks are essential, allowing for cheaper and less polluting mobility.