Lisbon residents challenge environmental exemption for major development

The civic movement Artilharia Um has filed a formal complaint with the European Commission against the Portuguese state, alleging a violation of European directives regarding environmental impact assessments (EIA). The dispute concerns a major urban development project at Rua de Artilharia 1 in Lisbon’s Amoreiras area, promoted by Novo Banco.

The nearly five-hectare site, which includes the former Artillery Barracks No. 1, is slated for 683 homes, approximately 47,200 square metres of office space, and 6,830 square metres of retail space. Residents argue that the project was improperly exempted from an EIA by the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR-LVT) by being classified as an amendment to an existing development rather than a new project.

In addition to the European Commission complaint, the group has contacted the Public Prosecutor’s Office to challenge the legality of the plans. Key concerns include the validity of existing planning permissions, compliance with Lisbon’s Municipal Master Plan, and the lack of requirements for affordable housing. The movement has gathered over 500 signatures in support of its petition.