CCRD Algarve, the regional coordination and development commission, has refused to extend the deadline for the public consultation of the project to build three hotels in a coastal area between Três Irmãos and Vau (Alvor, Portimão) – described as the “last untouched coastal area” in the municipality.
The confirmation was provided to Lusa news agency by a “source from CCDR Algarve”.
The citizens’ group, which opposes the project, requested a 15-day extension after claiming that it was refused access to vital documents by Portimão council (click here).
The project is backed by two Portuguese property development societies and a Spanish hotel company. Astronow, MI Estoril Invest, Areia Feliz, Top Building and Prainha are the owners of the plots, with Top Building acting as the project’s main representative.
If the project moves forward, three hotels will be built in a coastal area between Três Irmãos and Vau, covering a total area of 460,000 square metres.
However, locals fear that the construction of these hotels will destroy one of the last untouched coastal areas in Portimão, where all kinds of rare plants and birds can be found. The area is also a hugely popular spot for hikers.
Environmental association Almargem has called the project a “huge environmental mistake” and said it goes against a concerted effort by regional authorities to create a “more sustainable model for the region” and proves that “the same mistakes of the past are being made again”.
