Porto Metro extension to Gondomar faces removal of up to 533 trees and 24 buildings

A new Metro do Porto line linking the city centre with Gondomar has entered public consultation, with a deadline of 15 September. The proposed route runs from Parque Oriental station in Porto to Lagoa in Gondomar, serving stations such as São Roque, Cerco, Valbom, Hospital Fernando Pessoa, Cosme Ferreira Castro, Oliveira Martins and Souto.

Two design alternatives are under review. The more underground option (Alternative 1) would affect about 394 trees, while the surface option (Alternative 2) could require the removal of up to 533 trees and the demolition of 24 buildings. The study identified 89 protected cork‑oak (sobreiro) trees, whose felling would need special authorization. Mitigation measures include compensatory planting, limiting large‑tree removal in spring, and ensuring the number of trees planted exceeds those cut.

The project aims to improve regional mobility but raises significant environmental concerns that will be weighed during the consultation process.