The president of the Parish Council of Bensafrim, Carlos Vieira, sent an open letter to the president of the Municipal Council of Lagos, Hugo Pereira, expressing opposition to the possible construction of housing in the market square of the town. In the letter, dated August 28, the mayor argues that the land has strategic importance for the future of the parish and could be destined for the future headquarters of the Parish Council and other facilities and services of collective interest.
Carlos Vieira recalls the mobilization of the population around the future of that space, referring to a petition signed by approximately 520 people against the construction of housing in the location and in favor of its use for public facilities. The mayor acknowledges that Bensafrim needs more housing, especially given the aging of the community, but argues that this need should not, by itself, determine the occupation of that land.
The president of the Parish Council expresses concern about the possibility of the town progressively transforming into a predominantly residential space, defending the need to also strengthen the economic, social, cultural, and leisure components. Carlos Vieira argues that if the space is occupied by housing, this opportunity could be permanently lost, appealing for a long-term perspective in the decision.
A working group is being established with the objective of analyzing the needs of the parish and evaluating the most appropriate use of that space. Vieira requests that the Council not proceed with construction without a thorough evaluation, consider the will expressed in the petition, and evaluate alternative solutions to address housing needs, also requesting a meeting with representatives of the parish and the population.
