The Regional Government of Madrid will begin the renovation works on Line 8 of the Madrid underground on 12 February between Colombia and Mar de Cristal stations, with a budget of 5.3 million euros and an execution time of some three and a half months, due to finish around 30 May.

The works will consist of the comprehensive renovation of the track bed between these stations, which will involve suspending the train service between Colombia and Mar de Cristal stations, although users may change trains at both stations and take another underground line to continue with their journey. The only station that will remain completely closed to passengers during this time will be Pinar del Rey.

The works to improve the track bed and the drainage system will lead to the removal of the existing speed restrictions on this stretch, improve quality levels and increase stability and reduce the duration of the journey, thus ensuring lower maintenance costs.

With the aim of minimising the disruption caused by these works for passengers and reducing their impact, workers will work in several shifts 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Once the works are completed and the stations re-opened, work will be performed to replace ramps and make final finishes and adjustments for a period of one month, although these actions will not affect train movements.

Furthermore, in order to guarantee mobility in the area, the Regional Transport Consortium of Madrid will provide a special bus service, at no additional cost for users on the stretch affected.

A line of 10 buses will operate from 12 February to 30 May that covers the stretch between Colombia and Mar de Cristal stations, with a frequency of between 3 and 4 minutes. In addition to the special bus service, users will also be able to use Line 87 of the EMT to travel around the area affected. This line will enjoy an increased service should this be necessary due to user demand.