The ambitious Padel City project, which aimed to establish 17 padel courts in Linda-a-Velha, Oeiras, will not proceed as originally envisioned. The city government confirmed the decision, citing high construction costs as the primary reason for halting the development.
The land designated for the project, located near the Jamor Sports Complex, was granted to the Portuguese Padel Federation (FPP). However, technical requirements significantly increased the estimated investment, leading the FPP to deem the project financially unviable.
During a city council meeting, vice-president Francisco Rocha Gonçalves clarified that the municipality would not provide funding for the construction, as its involvement was limited to granting the land. With the project no longer feasible, the land will revert to the city’s control.
From the outset, the initiative faced opposition due to concerns about its proximity to residential areas and potential environmental impact near the Jamor forest. Civic movements, including the Vamos Salvar o Jamor association, voiced objections, arguing that the land was originally intended for a daycare center or sports facility.
With the cancellation of the project, discussions may arise regarding alternative uses for the land and future investments in sports infrastructure within Oeiras. The decision underscores the challenges of balancing urban development with financial and environmental considerations.
