Proposed Lisbon project causes a stir
28 August 2008
A planned high-density mixed-use development to be constructed in New Oeiras, Lisbon, has caused a stir amongst many locals, including residents, military officials and politicians.
The 155,000sqm mixed-use scheme to be built across an 82,000sqm plot of land is being led by contentious Oeiras Mayor, Isaltino Morais.
However, the project has come under intense criticism because the density index per square metre will supposedly be 1.84 – three times the 0.48 limit, set by Municipal Plan, the local Camara’s guidelines.
Members of the armed force have also rejected the project’s dimensions, because it includes a couple of 25-storey towers, however, the military will only accept six storeys.
Its reasons are that such high buildings could “compromise the security of the nearby Medrosa Army Base”.
The development will not go-ahead unless the disagreement between the Ministry of Defence and the Câmara is resolved.
Resistance from the military, opposition councillors and local residents will be discussed in a public enquiry which is set to continue until the end of August.