Porto reviews inclusive zoning after controversy

The Porto City Council has received approximately 33 million euros since 2021 from developers who opted for financial compensation instead of building affordable housing. This compensation is directed to a municipal fund supporting housing initiatives. Mayor Pedro Duarte announced plans to amend regulations to eliminate financial compensation for hotel or tourist developments. A recent vote allowed seven companies to pay instead of constructing affordable housing, a decision that may be reversed following discussions with opposition parties. Critics, including Socialist Party members, have labeled the decision as politically and legally flawed. A meeting is scheduled to discuss these issues further.