Porto City Council reverses decision and demands affordable housing

The Porto City Council reversed a previous decision allowing real estate developers to pay compensation instead of building affordable housing. The proposal was approved by the executive led by Pedro Duarte, with the sole Chega councilor abstaining. Concerns were raised about potential legal implications and acquired rights following the earlier decision. Duarte assured that the municipality would not have to pay indemnities as the previous decision had not been enacted. The council aims to discuss a new inclusive zoning regime in future meetings. Critics highlighted that the current regulations have not resulted in any affordable housing being built since their implementation in 2021.