Government prepares transfer of management of 477 properties to municipalities

The Government of Portugal announced its willingness to transfer the management of 477 public properties that are currently not in use to local municipalities. This information was confirmed by a statement from the ministries of Finance, Economy and Territorial Cohesion, and Infrastructure and Housing.

The list of properties, which has already been sent to the municipalities, includes buildings that could be used for affordable housing as well as for cultural and social purposes. The municipalities aim to utilize this heritage to promote public interest services.

In addition to the 477 identified properties, municipalities also have the opportunity to indicate other unused public real estate assets they wish to manage. This process allows for greater flexibility in managing available assets within the municipalities.

Municipalities have a deadline of December 31 this year to express interest in managing the presented properties. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the use of public goods for the benefit of local communities.

According to available data, there are about 83,000 public properties in the country, many of which are not being utilized. The transfer of management to municipalities aims to optimize these assets and promote local development.

The list of properties was prepared by the company Estamo, which manages state assets, and represents a government measure to collaborate with municipalities in improving housing conditions and supporting community activities. The objectives include increasing the supply of affordable housing in various locations.