Extract from the interview with Mr Francisco De la Torre, Mayor of Malaga, regarding the Hotel “Torre del Puerto” carried out by the journalist Pablo D. Almoguera in the digital newspaper “El Confidencial” (28/07/2021).
“It is a port project, right from the start. It fits the legislation and is an opportunity for the city. There are opinions against it, but also in favour. It is the possibility of having a hotel of a good size in terms of number of rooms, which there are not so many in Malaga and which congress operators miss. A great luxury that would generate employment and added value, which I understand has more advantages than disadvantages. It is a different height, it is true, but the total built area of the blocks of La Malagueta is much higher. It would be like an appendix to Pier 1, Pier 2 and the Cruise Ship Station, because it has always been said that it is in our interest not to be a transit port for cruise passengers.
When someone has a sensitive or opposing position, which I respect, and goes to a body such as the Ministry of Culture for a report, they may initially adopt a concerned or negative stance. Later, they will realise that they had no reason to. However, regarding the possible influence on the image of the bay, I have always believed that the container dock has more of an effect. This is a vertical building and, as far as possible, we have tried to make it as aesthetically pleasing as possible. Thus, it can be an element that does not clash with the landscape, that complements it. These constructions do not have to be negative; they can be a plus. I see it as an opportunity.”