The Municipality of Castelo Branco will proceed with the rehabilitation of the old building of Pensão Residencial Arraiana, located on avenue 1º de Maio, to create a shared student residence with capacity for 29 students. The executive approved unanimously, at the meeting of August 27, the launch of the competition for the elaboration of the project. The property had been previously acquired by the municipality for 666 thousand euros.
The municipality states that this initiative is part of the municipal strategy to reinforce the offer of affordable accommodation for higher education students, displaced young people, doctors and researchers, simultaneously promoting urban regeneration and local commerce.
The architectural project includes 22 accommodation units, distributed across 4 double rooms with private bathroom, 13 individual studios, 3 double studios and 2 studios adapted for people with reduced mobility. The functional program includes common areas such as reception, study rooms, library, leisure area, dining room with shared kitchen, laundry and an outdoor terrace.
The installation of an elevator is planned to ensure inclusive internal circulation on all floors. The Municipality guarantees that the project will maintain the architectural style and the original appearance of the building's facade.
