As part of the project, DARS will develop design and investment-related documents for stage 2 of the Third Development Axis – South, namely from the Maline access point to the international border crossing Metlika and the Črnomelj South access point. For construction works to start, a final building permit is required. DARS will therefore chose the entity that will develop the design documents which will serve as the basis for obtaining the building permit under an integrated procedure. Thus, all the land needed for construction will be obtained which will enable construction works to start.

Stage 2 covers three subsections: 20 kilometres from the Gradnik junction to the Črnomelj South junction, 8 kilometres from Maline-Metlika North and 2.5 kilometres from the Metlika North – Metlika border crossing. DARS will first start the construction of the section Metlika North – Metlika border crossing which is planned for 2023.

The investment will improve accessibility to the existing trans-European transport network TEN-T, as well as accessibility and economic development in the region. Indeed, strengthening regional development potentials and the preservation of jobs are the main objectives of the investment.

The project is part of the Agreement on the Development of the Jugovzhodna Slovenija Region.