Reinvent Your Neighbourhood Programme - Inauguration of Largo do Chafariz

Friday 19/7, students from Galicia Primary School marked the activation of Largo do Chafariz by completing the paintings they had done themselves. This event highlighted the students' involvement in the creation and construction of the space, demonstrating to the local community their commitment to revitalising the area. The Melhoria do Nosso Bairro (Improving Our Neighbourhood) project, whose main aim is to promote the re-appropriation of Largo do Chafariz for the community's enjoyment, giving it back its primary function as a public space and meeting place, was the driving force behind this initiative. Zeca Duarte, Cascais City Council councillor, stressed the importance of the initiative and that "thanks to this project, the council is encouraging residents to collaborate in a collective conscience for the well-being of their community and the entire neighbourhood". The project began in the 2022/2023 school year, in a partnership between the school community of EB1 Galicia and the Warehouse Collective. The project aimed to sensitise students to the importance of public space and their role as active citizens. Various activities introducing students to architectural thinking were carried out, allowing them to gradually get closer to the urban scale from within the school environment. By expanding their gaze beyond the school walls, the students took part in mapping activities, drawing the school and its surroundings and identifying important landmarks. ‘This process included direct contact with the residents of the Galicia neighbourhood, through interviews conducted by the students, which allowed them to learn about the history of the area and identify current needs,’ said Salomé Duarte, EB1 Galicia's ludobibliotecário who accompanied the students throughout the process. The next phases of the project centred on studying possible interventions. The students took part in brainstorming sessions and drew up models using various materials. These activities culminated in the occupation of Largo do Chafariz with full-scale models, presenting the project to the school community and neighbourhood residents. The intervention proposals included: - Reactivation of the old fountain - Limiting car parking to promote the enjoyment of the public space - Placing tables and chairs - Installation of benches - Creation of flower beds - Placing drinking fountains for people and animals - Collective painting The revitalisation of Largo do Chafariz is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of involving the younger generations in creating a more inclusive and participatory future for all.