Writing on his social media, renown geographer, Raimundo Quintal stated how indignant he is that the Fortim do Faial still remains closed to the general public.
Expressing his anger on his Facebook page, he wrote “residents and visitors are prevented from accessing the viewpoint and enjoying the fantastic views of the coastline, from Ponta de São Lourenço to Ponta do Clérigo, Porto Santo, Penha de Águia, Lombas do Faial, São Roque do Faial and Porto da Cruz. This monument” he said is “classified as a MONUMENT OF LOCAL VALUE by Resolution no. 560/96, dated 16th of May, by the Regional Government of Madeira, who cannot leave this valuable piece of historical heritage to fall into disrepair or remain closed to the general public. As such, the Regional Secretary for Tourism and Culture, the Câmara de Santana and the Parish Council of Faial have a duty to explain clearly the reasons for the ostensible closure.”
The viewpoint in question has been padlocked since the end of last year, and with barriers in place at local picnic sites and other attractions, it would appear that many places of interest will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
