Sintra Mayoral Candidate Ana Mendes Godinho Proposes New Business Park and Sustainable Construction Hub
Ana Mendes Godinho, the candidate for the PS/LIVRE coalition in the upcoming Sintra municipal elections, has announced a strategic economic program focused on attracting investment and fostering sustainable development. During a campaign event on October 7th at the Mercado Municipal da Vila de Sintra, Godinho, accompanied by former Minister of Economy Pedro Siza Vieira, detailed plans that include the creation of a new business park in Cacém and a specialized innovation center for sustainable construction in Pero Pinheiro.
The policy announcement is a core component of the coalition's strategy to enhance the economic vitality of Sintra, Portugal's second-largest municipality by population. The electoral program explicitly states the objective of attracting 'qualified investment and the creation of quality employment.' The proposed measures aim to support a range of economic activities, from traditional local commerce to modern, innovative industries that are critical for the region's future growth and appeal to international investors.
The plan for a new business park in Cacém is designed to address the need for modern commercial infrastructure capable of hosting large-scale enterprises and fostering business synergies. This initiative is expected to create a significant number of jobs and stimulate ancillary economic activities, which would, in turn, drive demand for housing and local services in the surrounding areas of the Lisbon metropolitan region. The specific location and timeline for the business park have not yet been detailed, pending the election outcome and subsequent municipal planning.
A cornerstone of the proposal is the establishment of a Center for Innovation in Sustainable Construction in Pero Pinheiro, an area with a long history tied to the stone and materials industry. This center is envisioned as a hub for research, development, and promotion of green building technologies and practices. The initiative aligns with both national and European Union goals for environmental sustainability and aims to position Sintra at the forefront of the eco-construction movement in Portugal. For the real estate sector, this could translate into new standards for development and a new market for sustainable properties.
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During the campaign stop, Pedro Siza Vieira, who served as Minister of Economy and Digital Transition, endorsed Godinho's capabilities. 'I have known her for many years and I know her ability to get things done, to not rest until things happen, to work for others, which is her life's mission,' he stated to local merchants and residents. His presence is seen as a strong signal of support from established political figures for the economic feasibility of the announced projects.
The coalition's program also includes provisions for creating public spaces for micro-businesses and supporting young and rural entrepreneurs. These measures are intended to diversify the local economy and enhance the quality of life in the municipality's various parishes. The campaign's focus on economic dynamism is presented as a direct response to the needs of a large and diverse population that faces challenges related to employment and local opportunities.
The proposals put forth by Ana Mendes Godinho represent a potential long-term vision for Sintra's economic landscape. If implemented, these projects would have a direct impact on the municipality's real estate market, influencing commercial property development, housing demand, and construction standards. The outcome of the municipal elections will determine whether these strategic initiatives will move from the planning stage to implementation.
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