In July, construction works, which also involve the redevelopment of outdoor spaces in the old urban center of Arrentela, were suspended following the discovery of archaeological remains.
According to the local authority in the Setúbal district, a set of houses built before the great earthquake of 1755 was discovered within the old urban center, some of which were destroyed by the quake. A pottery kiln was also found, as well as the old post-earthquake protective wall that served to protect this area from the tides. Additionally, the works uncovered large structures, including thick stones, and various shipbuilding remains from the Age of Discoveries.
Now, the Seixal City Council explains in a statement that an evaluation is being carried out by the Cultural Heritage authority, which may require archaeological excavation and conservation work.
“Considering the inconvenience caused by the traffic diversion implemented on Avenida da República, the municipality decided to restore the two lanes until the evaluation of the archaeological work is completed, with both lanes expected to open to traffic on August 19,” the council explains.
Work continues in other areas of the old urban center of Arrentela, including “the execution of the new water supply network in Beco dos Ferreiros, Calçada da Boa Hora, and Travessa do Major, as well as the execution of the rainwater drainage network near Jardim de Arrentela.”
The next steps, according to the executive, are the execution of outdoor pavements in locations where drainage and supply networks are being installed, as well as the redevelopment of Jardim de Arrentela and its surroundings.
This project was awarded by the municipality for over two million euros, with an execution period of 730 days, which will now be extended. It is a structural intervention aimed at improving the functionality of the space and the urban environment through the redevelopment of streets, squares, and staircases, as well as the reformulation of underground and aerial infrastructure networks.
The creation of safe crossings, resting areas near the waterfront, a grassy and tree-lined green space, and a parking area are also planned.
Furthermore, the local authority explains that the project aims to “create the necessary conditions for the recovery and revitalization of the old center of Arrentela, stimulating the occupation of currently degraded or unoccupied buildings and the settlement of population in housing, commerce, or services.”
