Emergency reinforcement work is due to begin in the coming days on the Praia Formosa–Socorridos promenade, near Cimentos Madeira, after signs that part of the pavement was giving way.
The temporary preventive intervention is intended to reduce the risk of the suspended walkway collapsing and allow the affected section to reopen safely. The work is expected to take approximately three weeks.
The area, identified as Section 3, has remained closed since signs of instability were detected. The Metropolitan Development Society made the decision in conjunction with Civil Protection and the Maritime Police.
Following the closure, the Regional Civil Engineering Laboratory (LREC) helped conduct a technical assessment of the structure. The findings provided further information about the condition of the walkway and the measures required to minimise the immediate risks.
Specialist companies were subsequently invited to submit proposals for reinforcing the affected section.
Élia Ribeiro, chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Development Societies, said the response was based on prevention, technical evaluation and a phased programme of work.
“From the moment a possible risk was identified, the necessary steps were taken to protect users, assess the structure and prepare a reinforcement solution,” she said.
The temporary work forms part of a broader plan to rehabilitate the Praia Formosa–Socorridos promenade and improve its safety.
Procedures are already underway for a second phase involving more extensive rehabilitation, representing an estimated investment of €3.3 million. A third phase is also planned to address the remaining areas and complete the progressive renovation of the entire promenade.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: SREI/DN
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