Lisbon Collaborates with Other Municipalities to Revise Historic Shops Law

Lisbon's City Council is joining forces with other municipalities across Portugal to propose amendments to the Historic Shops Law, including extending the protection of rental contracts. This initiative was revealed by the councilor for Economy, Diogo Moura (CDS-PP), during a public meeting.

Key Developments:

• The proposal follows the recognition of three establishments as Historic Shops: the restaurants Antigo 1º de Maio and Cabaças in Misericórdia, and Rita Salazar Store in Areeiro. This decision was unanimously approved.
• Two other establishments, Leitaria Pastelaria Eneri and Leitaria da Anunciada, were denied the Historic Shop status, a decision that saw abstentions from PS, Livre, BE, and Cidadãos Por Lisboa.

Concerns and Criticisms:

• Ricardo Moreira (BE) expressed concerns over the program's potential gentrification, where historic shops are bought by large brands for branding purposes rather than preserving their original commerce.
• Ana Jara (PCP) highlighted the need to revise the program's criteria to protect not just architectural heritage but also the original commerce, preventing these spaces from being repurposed.

Ongoing Issues:

• The case of Ginjinha Sem Rival, at risk of closure due to the property owner's opposition to lease renewal, was underscored. Moura assured that the situation is being closely monitored, with the shop continuing to operate under the protection granted to Historic Shops until at least December 31, 2027.

Future Steps:

• Pedro Anastácio (PS) advocated for additional protections within the program to safeguard historic commerce and prevent monoculture.
• Moura announced that the revision of the municipal program's regulations is complete and under evaluation by the CCDR. The revision aims to relax some criteria to include more establishments.

Collaborative Efforts:

• Lisbon is working with 20 municipalities to present a document to the government in early September, proposing key changes to the law, including extending lease contract protections and clarifying the applicability of the New Urban Lease Regime (NRAU) under this law.