In a recent development, the Loures City Council, led by socialist Ricardo Leão, has addressed concerns following a new demolition at Bairro do Talude Militar. This action comes after the movement Vida Justa reported that a provisional structure, rebuilt by a mother and daughter who were left homeless in July, has been dismantled again today.
The council confirmed the demolition, emphasizing that it was part of their ongoing efforts against illegal territorial occupation. The city services identified the construction of a “new shack” on Saturday, August 2, and promptly warned the occupants that their actions constituted disobedience.
On Tuesday, August 5, at 12:15 PM, an eviction notice was posted, requiring clearance within 48 hours. The council dismantled the structure after the deadline expired on Thursday afternoon, maintaining that no formal judicial notice preventing this action had been received.
The current injunction, put in place by a Lisbon administrative court to halt operations initiated on July 14, only applies to previous constructions. As a result, Vida Justa backed the residents in filing a new injunction.
The family affected by this demolition comprises two adults and a child, who reportedly declined temporary accommodation arranged by the council, which included hotel lodging with assistance for a future housing solution, secured by a deposit and first month’s rent.
In a statement, Loures City Council expressed readiness to work with those seeking legal and safe solutions, reiterating their refusal to allow unauthorized and exploited shack construction, which undermines broader housing policies.
Adopting a “zero tolerance” stance, the council stressed that demolitions are part of their continuous efforts to curb illegal self-built settlements, which pose threats to public safety and the environment.
The council highlighted the growing housing issue, often capitalizing on the vulnerabilities of immigrants in precarious situations. To tackle this, teams from social services, employment support, and migrant assistance are actively working to offer housing, food, and employment integration support to those in need.
On July 14, Loures City Council initiated the demolition of 64 makeshift houses at Talude Militar, home to 161 people. Fifty-one houses were razed on the first day, with four more demolished the next. However, the operation was suspended following a Lisbon court’s decision in response to an injunction filed by 14 residents.
