Local Police and a psychologist were immediately despatched to the scene, across the road from La Zenia Boulevard
ORIHUELA COSTA, 30 October – Panic and drama hit the coastline on Thursday afternoon when a young woman scaled the top of the pedestrian bridge over the AP-7 motorway near the Villamartín Road, close to the bustling Zenia Boulevard shopping centre.
The incident unfolded shortly after 1pm, as local police rushed to the scene with a psychologist in tow. The bridge is a major thoroughfare linking key coastal roads, making the standoff all the more alarming for passing motorists and pedestrians, bringing traffic to a standstill in all surrounding roads.
The Local police officers and a psychologist spent considerable time talking to the young woman in an effort to calm her and persuade her to come down. After a period of visible anguish and uncertainty, their efforts succeeded — she was finally convinced to descend safely, where she was immediately attended to by health services.
The situation, which had caused alarm among passersby and stopped traffic in the busy area, was fully resolved by 3 p.m. Thankfully, what could have ended in tragedy concluded with relief and care.
Prevention Efforts
The Orihuela Local Police maintain a specialized unit dedicated to preventing risky behavior among young people, both in schools and within the community. Authorities urge families to remain vigilant for any warning signs in their children, to monitor online activity, and to promptly report any concerns to schools or the police.
The structure sits close to another bridge near IES Playa Flamenca, the coast’s only high school with over 700 students. The school has been plagued by drugs, weapons, and fights—issues that intensified following the brutal murder of 15-year-old Cloe, found with her throat slashed in a nearby alley. Prosecutors are seeking eight years’ detention for Cloe’s ex-boyfriend and another classmate, both minors.
Another heavily used bridge near Lomas de Cabo Roig connects the residential area, La Cuerda, and Lomas de Golf with local beaches, shops, and medical facilities. With only one lane each way and no proper sidewalks, pedestrians are forced to walk along a perilously narrow 40cm shoulder, putting their safety at risk.
Residents have long demanded a pedestrian and cycle bridge. After more than 20 years of delays, the coalition government finally put the project out to tender in April, though it has yet to be awarded. Mayor Pepe Vegara championed the plan during his election campaign, even listing it as the top investment in the 2024 budget.
Once approved, the contract—worth over €1.3 million—could take nine months to a year to award. Work might not begin until late 2026 or early 2027, with construction expected to last around five months.
The bridge will feature a two-way cycle lane at least 2.5 metres wide and a pedestrian path of no less than 1.8 metres. LED lighting will ensure safe passage for both cyclists and walkers, while the design will blend with the surrounding urban environment.
The need for a safe crossing dates back to the original urban development plan for Lomas de Cabo Roig, which included widening the CV-941 road bridge over the AP-7.
Though the developer began work in 2004, the pedestrian overpass was never built. The City Council has not waived the guarantee, which remains tied up in legal proceedings.
As the drama unfolded on the AP-7, locals are calling once again for urgent action to prevent further danger on this vital coastal route.
