CPU collects opinions on draft planning for new Central Library

The new Central Library is at stage 10 of its draft planning process, in which the Urban Planning Committee (CPU) invites opinions on the project.

The draft planning of the new Central Library, which is located opposite the Tap Seac Square on Avenida de Sidónio Pais, proposes to restrict the building’s height to 14 meters on the side facing the Square, and to 8.5 meters on the side facing Estrada da Vitória.

However, the highest point of the future building should not exceed 29.37 meters above sea level on Sidónio Pais and 41.71 meters above sea level on Estrada da Vitória. Another restriction is that the visual skyline between the Guia Fortress as well as the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows and Lighthouse, and the Tap Seac Square should be fully protected.

Two old trees located on the eastern and southern tips of the land plot will be protected. A small shrine on the southern tip will also be relocated with the consensus of local religious leaders.

Previously, on behalf of the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), president of the Social Welfare Bureau Hon Wai has promised lawmaker Ron Lam that an automated vertical pedestrian movement facility will be installed in the new library. This is not shown in the draft planning.

The other cultural facility is a set of two townhouses next to the aft entrance of public broadcaster TDM’s headquarters, on Rua de Francisco Xavier Pereira. The project consists of three land plots. Part of the pair of town houses – referred to by the government as Plot B – is currently used as the Xian Xinghai Memorial Museum.

Considering their historical significance, the retention of their façades and open spaces is required by the draft planning.

Earlier, the IC has said that it would invite commercial operators to run certain catering offerings at the facilities.