In a recent administrative court filing, a controversial start to the second phase of a major construction project in Porto has sparked widespread public outcry. Residents expressed “total incomprehension and indignation” as construction commenced with the removal of dozens of large trees and the destruction of urban green corridors.
Pedro Duarte, a prominent figure associated with the project, accused Metro do Porto of “absolute irresponsibility” and a lack of concern for future generations, emphasizing that less harmful technical alternatives with lesser impacts had already been identified.
The municipal assembly expressed “profound indignation” over Metro do Porto’s decisions, citing a “manifest and inadmissible disrespect” as work began on September 22.
Metro do Porto announced that the construction would not affect regular traffic, a claim disputed by Duarte, who pointed out inconsistencies, noting the first phase had not yet been operationalized.
In a written statement, Duarte emphasized the civic importance of halting what he called one of the city’s “greatest irresponsible acts,” criticising actions that went against the interests of Porto’s residents by cutting down numerous trees. He asserted a contrasting vision to the PS party, advocating for more green spaces, walkways, and bike paths, as opposed to the Socialists’ preference for more concrete and asphalt.
The plan to cut trees for the initial segment of the metrobus’s second phase was unveiled on August 27, with reports indicating a significant increase in greenery replacements upon completion: from 48 to 108 trees, with a mix of maintained, newly planted, and transplanted trees along major avenues.
Duarte led a petition in May opposing the current form of the metrobus project’s second phase.
Metro do Porto stated it is working on project revisions in alignment with Porto’s city council objectives, particularly between Garcia de Orta and Castelo do Queijo stations.
After a council request on April 1, project revisions were made, leading to Duarte’s May 22 petition pushing for a central bike path and tree preservation, aligning with the views of Porto’s current mayor, Rui Moreira.
The mayoral race includes candidates such as Manuel Pizarro (PS), Diana Ferreira (CDU), Nuno Cardoso (Porto Primeiro), Pedro Duarte (PSD/CDS-PP/IL), Sérgio Aires (BE), and Filipe Araújo (independent), among others.
The current executive comprises a majority from Rui Moreira’s movement, with other seats held by PS, PSD, CDU, and BE representatives. Local elections are scheduled for October 12.
