The development is a major project spanning 2.5 million sq ft (235,000 sq m), and a physical representation of Intu’s vision for the future.In addition to 142,000 sq m of retail space, it will be home to more than 20 leisure operators, over 70 restaurants, two hotels, a 5,000-person concert venue and Spain’s largest urban farm. Intu is expecting the centre will welcome 29 million visitors a year when it opens in 2023.

The layout is being configured in an entirely new way, with a set of distinct, neighbourhoods dedicated to a variety of experiences. The Boulevard will bring together a selection of international brands, while The Gallery is designed to offer a comprehensive shopping experience. The Arena will set the stage for up-and-coming and world-renowned music artists, The Hood is set to be “a hive of creative energy”, The Hills will feature fine dining and The Lake aims to provide “fun for everyone at any time”. Wonderland will be an area especially geared towards children and Central Park, at the heart of the whole development, completes the layout.Martin Breeden, development director for Intu, said: “These neighbourhoods will be instrumental in ensuring the resort has something for everyone, allowing each and every visitor to have a unique experience and create memories for life.” Ian Sandford, project director for Intu Costa del Sol and president of Intu’s JV partner Eurofund, added: “What sets Intu Costa del Sol apart is our approach, rooted in an ethos born from the need for a refreshing new way of thinking. The neighbourhood approach is a vital part of this, and one that we believe will truly make the project stand out on the world stage.”After years of legal challenges, the €850 million project in Torremolinos, outside Malaga, was given the green light in September. Intu said preparatory works start in 2020.