The Motor Group of the Busturialdea-Urdaibai Regional Strategic Plan (PEC) has presented its first annual progress report, outlining the activation of key projects aimed at boosting the region's competitiveness, social cohesion, mobility, and sustainability. A major milestone achieved is the completion of a 2.5 million euro investment for the establishment of a new business R&D center by the cooperative Maier, located in Ajangiz. This fully executed initiative will enhance the center's scientific and technological capabilities, expand collaborations with other research firms and entities, and solidify its position as a leader in plastic components and decoration technologies for the automotive sector. The project is also expected to open "new opportunities for industrial diversification for the region," as announced at a recent meeting in Busturia attended by representatives from the Basque Government, the Provincial Council, and local municipalities.
In terms of mobility, the implementation of an on-demand microbus transport service integrated into the Bizkaibus network for the municipalities on the right bank of Busturialdea was positively assessed. Furthermore, progress was announced in improving road infrastructure, including the commencement of the strategic environmental assessment and the drafting of the Special Road Plan for the Autzagane-Muxika road.
The planning for the cycle path section between Gernika-Lumo and Murueta, connecting Muxika and Bermeo, has been finalized, and alternative routes for the section linking Muxika to the historic town have been analyzed. Another completed project is the adaptation of the Andrabide quarry, which has allowed for "the recovery of a disused industrial space for future uses and the restoration of native ecosystems."
Regarding housing and social cohesion, the PEC has initiated discussions with local councils to define actions targeting vulnerable groups, while the promotion of public housing in Errigoiti remains under feasibility study.
The training and economic promotion area has also seen advancements. Specifically, the Barrutialde Vocational Training centers and the Bermeo Nautical-Fisheries School have identified their infrastructure and equipment investment needs and are currently drafting the initial technical specifications for tendering the projects "starting this year," according to the Busturialdea Motor Group.
The future industrial estate in Muxika is "advancing in the necessary urban planning procedures for its development," it was stated. The project is designed to accommodate up to 120 companies and generate approximately 1,500 jobs. Concurrently, the plot of the former Inama timber plant in Muxika "continues to await administrative procedures that will determine its final use."
The report also details the progress in modernizing the port of Bermeo, a strategic action intended to consolidate the fishing town and the region "as a hub linked to the blue economy, as well as fostering the creation of new economic activities and employment."
In the heritage and cultural domain, technical work related to the Santa Clara Convent has been mentioned. The Basque Government acquired the convent for 3.6 million euros to transform it into a space dedicated to peace and memory. Additionally, ongoing efforts at the Roman site of Forua and the renovation of the 3D projection of the Santimamiñe cave in Kortezubi were noted.
