Porto's Historic Aurifícia Factory Site to Be Redeveloped into Major Urban Project
A project to construct 122 new homes, offices, and retail spaces on the site of the former Companhia Aurifícia factory in Cedofeita is currently advancing through the Porto City Council's urban planning services. The developer, Companhia Aurifícia - Sic Imobiliária Fechada, S.A., announced the plan for the 19,000-square-meter industrial plot, which has been largely inactive for years. The project specifications detail a mixed-use development intended to revitalize the historic area, with the architectural firm Ventura + Partners leading the design. The project's ownership is held by a partnership between Vasco Pacheco Couto, formerly of the construction firm Telhabel, and the Swiss investor Daniel Klein, who are financing the redevelopment.
The construction timeline is pending final approval of the architectural plans, which are currently awaiting review by several municipal and external bodies. A Preliminary Information Request (PIP) for the project was approved by the city council on February 21, allowing the planning to proceed. The development is divided into two main parcels, with the first focusing on the renovation of six heritage buildings and the second on the construction of two new residential structures. The plan also includes a new road connecting Rua dos Bragas and Rua de Álvares Cabral, which will feature restricted vehicle access to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist traffic. The project will also add 400 square meters of green space to the public domain.
The architectural design aims to preserve significant historical elements of the 19th-century factory, which was designated a Public Interest Complex in 2012. The government at the time recognized it as an 'exceptional heritage' site. The plan includes maintaining original facades and integrating industrial artifacts into the landscape as historical markers. The renovation will convert existing buildings into housing, services, and offices, with the former owner's residence slated to become a restaurant. The new construction will consist of two modern apartment buildings. The entire complex will be serviced by a 252-space private underground parking facility.
The project has not yet received full planning permission, as the city council confirmed to the Lusa news agency that the architectural project is still under review. This development follows a 2013 international ideas competition for the site, which had envisioned a hotel and cultural facilities. The current project, however, is focused on creating a new residential and commercial hub. The investment is seen as a significant step in the ongoing urban regeneration of Porto, transforming a derelict industrial site into a modern, functional community space while respecting its historical significance. Monitor new development opportunities at realestate-lisbon.com.
