The article addresses the controversy about new Sousa warehouses at Figueirinhas, on the Island of Madeira, and the political responsibility for their licensing. The author argues that Figueirinhas and the Cancela area belong to the parish of Caniço, integrated in the municipality of Santa Cruz, which is governed by JPP, and not to Funchal as some commentators incorrectly stated.
The licensing of works, the change of land use, the approval of architectural projects and the collection of municipal taxes in that area are the exclusive responsibility of the Santa Cruz Municipal Council, governed by its Municipal Master Plan. The author criticizes JPP supporters who tried to attribute responsibility to Funchal, considering that they demonstrate ignorance of municipal geography or try to divert attention from the urban planning decisions made by their own council.
The article also addresses an attempt to use the proximity of the Funchal Prison Establishment as justification for restrictions on licensing. The author argues that the warehouse expansion area is physically separated from the prison by topography and road network, without overlapping security perimeters or administrative easements that would require intervention from the Ministry of Justice or the DGRSP.
A local resident, who lives in front of the new warehouses, reports the negative impact on the quality of life in the neighborhood, describing the transformation of a quiet residential area into one with warehouses and trucks. The author concludes that the political responsibility for changing the profile of that area lies with the Santa Cruz Municipal Council and JPP, accusing party supporters of practicing disinformation and personal attacks against those who questioned the decision.
