A new regulation has been written requiring all new residential developments in Benalmadena to feature underground parking.

The change in the Master Town Plan is aimed at reducing parking congestion in the centre of the Costa del Sol city.

For the amendment to be passed as law, it needs the approval of the Junta de Andalucia, though this is not expected to be a problem, SUR reports.

New projects in Benalmadena Pueblo and Arroyo de la Miel will be affected. If the developer is unable to provide an underground space, they will be required to provide alternative facilities within 300 metres of the property.

Commenting on the proposal, Elena Benitez, deputy mayor of Arroyo de la Miel, told the news provider: "We hope that the town’s parking problems will be solved as a result."

In other news in Benalmadena, the refurbishment of three city streets - Andalusia, San Telmo and Leala - has entered the final phase of completion.