Oeiras Municipality to Launch Tender for €5 Million Social Center in Early 2026
The Oeiras Municipal Council has officially announced that a public tender for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art facility for the CERCIOEIRAS cooperative will be launched in the first quarter of 2026. The announcement brings to a close a 12-year period of anticipation for the institution, which provides critical support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in the Lisbon metropolitan area. The project, a long-standing request from the community, signals a significant municipal investment in social infrastructure.
The new center is valued at approximately €5 million and is designed to address the severe capacity constraints faced by CERCIOEIRAS. The project specifications detail the creation of 54 new places: 24 in a modern residential unit and 30 in the Center for Activities and Training for Inclusion (CACI). This expansion is a direct response to a waiting list that currently includes 105 people, a number that has grown steadily over the years. The existing facilities, occupied for 23 years, are no longer sufficient to meet the community's growing and evolving needs.
According to a statement from the office of Mayor Isaltino Morais, the prolonged delay was due to a combination of administrative reorganizations and shifting budgetary priorities over the past decade. However, the municipality has now reaffirmed its commitment to the project. "The well-being of all our citizens is a priority, and the CERCIOEIRAS project is an essential component of our social support network. The necessary funds will be allocated in the 2026 budget to ensure this vital facility is built without further delay," a municipal spokesperson confirmed. This move is seen by local observers as a key part of the municipality's broader strategy to enhance quality of life and social services in Oeiras, a factor that strengthens its appeal. For more on local developments, see the latest in our Neighborhood News section.
The architectural plans, developed by the local firm 'Urbanité Social', envision a facility that is not only functional but also fully integrated into the community. The design emphasizes accessibility, with features such as therapeutic gardens, modern workshop spaces, and multi-purpose rooms for vocational training and community activities. Paulo Pessoa, chairman of CERCIOEIRAS, expressed his relief and optimism. "This is a day we have been working towards for more than a decade. This new center will transform the lives of dozens of families, providing a safe and enriching environment for their loved ones," he stated in an interview.
The €5 million investment for the project is confirmed to be included in the forthcoming municipal budget, providing financial certainty for its execution. The project has already cleared preliminary regulatory hurdles and has widespread support from local community organizations and residents, who have advocated for its construction for years. The tender process, set to begin early next year, will select a construction partner to bring the project to fruition, with construction expected to commence by late 2026.
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In line with contemporary building standards, the project will incorporate significant sustainability features. Plans include the installation of solar panels to reduce energy costs and a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation. These elements align with the municipality's commitment to environmental responsibility. Investors interested in sustainable projects can find relevant professionals on our Green Building Constructors page.
The construction phase is expected to generate dozens of jobs, providing a temporary boost to the local economy. More importantly, the long-term operation of the expanded facility will create permanent positions for specialized caregivers, therapists, and administrative staff. Economists note that such investments in social infrastructure have a positive multiplier effect, enhancing the overall stability and attractiveness of the community. This development reinforces Oeiras's reputation as a well-managed and socially conscious municipality, a key consideration for both families and investors looking at the area. For more information on the area, the Lisbon Neighborhoods Guide is an excellent resource.
The new CERCIOEIRAS center will be built to the highest quality and safety standards, ensuring it meets the specific needs of its residents and users. The facility will provide a secure and supportive environment, contributing positively to the social fabric of Oeiras. The successful completion of this project will be a testament to the community's persistence and the municipality's commitment to inclusive development.
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