The Caixa de Previdência Neighborhood, located within the Norton de Matos neighborhood area in Coimbra, showed signs of advanced deterioration by the end of 2021, affecting its playground, concrete and metal benches, tree planters, pavement, and vehicle circulation and parking. Despite the public visibility of the issue, intervention only occurred after the Parish Council of Santo António dos Olivais committed to its renewal in 2022, engaging in dialogue with the Coimbra City Council.
As a result of close collaboration between the two authorities and with resident input, the Parish Council presented the "Renewal of the Caixa de Previdência Neighborhood" proposal in 2024. This proposal was included in the Parish Council's Activity Plan for 2025 and was incorporated into the Inter-administrative Contract for Delegation of Competencies signed in February 2025, with an initial projected investment of €60,000.00.
The architectural project, developed by the City Council's Division for Parish Support, was approved in December 2025. Storm Kristin caused significant damage, necessitating project adjustments, including the renovation of the playground, replacement of concrete benches, installation of new tree planters, and the addition of a protective canopy in Praça de Cabo Verde.
The Parish Council also undertook the repair of iron benches, which will be relocated within the parish, and the restoration of the degraded pavement. The construction work was awarded in April 2026, with an initial deadline of 150 days, later extended by 30 days. The total investment exceeded €75,000.00.
The playground was reopened to the community on October 20, 2026, with all safety conditions met. The sports equipment, owned by the City Council, will be subject to usage regulations. Furthermore, the circulation and parking plan for the neighborhood has been approved, aiming to resolve existing disorganization.
