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Flavia L. Lamattina
Caldas da Rainha has unveiled an innovative and ambitious plan that lays the groundwork for the municipality’s sustainable development through 2030. The Strategic Development Plan 2030 outlines the main priorities and necessary interventions to transform the city into a model of innovation, inclusion, and environmental, social, and economic balance. The plan not only guides future investments but also reinforces Caldas da Rainha’s identity, positioning it as a model of balanced development in Portugal and Europe.
Structured around three major strategic pillars—quality of life, economic renewal, and environmental enhancement—the plan reflects a commitment to improving living standards, modernizing the economy, and preserving natural resources. Investments exceeding €40 million are planned, encompassing structural initiatives from urban revitalization to the redevelopment of industrial and natural areas.
This initiative stands out for its participatory vision, involving experts, policymakers, and the local community at every stage of the process through meetings, fieldwork, and public sessions on themes such as “Caldas’s Competitive Model,” “Environmental Sustainability,” and “Social Cohesion.” Two large presentation and debate sessions were held to gather contributions from residents and local decision-makers, ensuring a collective effort aligned with the community’s real needs.
Located in the Lisbon Metropolitan Arc spanning Leiria, Santarém and Lisbon districts, Caldas da Rainha is an attractive nexus for investments and partnerships. The plan acknowledges this potential and includes specific actions to consolidate the municipality as an economic hub in the Oeste region, focusing on sectors such as ceramics, agriculture and startups.
The “Quality of Life” pillar calls for a city that is more functional, inclusive, and pleasant for its inhabitants. Planned actions include the redevelopment of the district hospital, improvements to the Caldas da Rainha Health Center, construction of new childcare facilities, and modernization of school infrastructure. The plan envisions expanding the cycling network, upgrading roads, and promoting a more efficient public transportation system. When it comes to tourism and culture, projects like consolidating Caldas as a UNESCO “Creative City” and expanding the municipal library and the Arts Center will run alongside the creation of new spaces for exhibitions, ceramics, sculpture, and public art.
The “Economic Renewal” pillar aims to transform the business landscape by fostering innovation and competitiveness. Proposals include redeveloping industrial zones, establishing innovation centers, and providing direct support to entrepreneurs and new businesses. Sustainable agriculture is also a focus, with the creation of a Rural Academy for training and research, promoting new products and ventures in the sector. The city’s venerable thermal baths will be revitalized through the rehabilitation of the Thermal Hospital, the establishment of a National School of Hydrology and Thermalism, and the creation of an International Thermal Water Laboratory. These initiatives not only preserve the historical legacy of thermal baths but also open opportunities for innovations in cosmetics and leisure.
Under the “ Environmental Enhancement” pillar, the plan prioritizes preserving natural resources and transitioning to a sustainable economy. Protecting the Óbidos Lagoon is a key focus, with initiatives like dredging, creating green spaces, and promoting water sports and recreational activities. Other measures include environmental education programs, climate change adaptation efforts, and showcasing natural landscapes via ecological trails and thematic routes. Management of D. Carlos I Park will be improved, reinforcing its importance as a key leisure space in the city.
Efficient and participatory governance is another essential pillar of the plan, which includes the creation of platforms for dialogue among local and regional stakeholders. The implementation of participatory budgets and territorial marketing strategies aims to strengthen the municipality’s identity and promote greater integration across different sectors of society. This collaborative approach is seen as fundamental to achieving the proposed goals and establishing Caldas da Rainha as a reference for innovative public management.
The plan emphasizes the importance of combining tradition with innovation. Caldas da Rainha, known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, seeks to redefine its role in the regional and national context by adopting modern practices that respect its legacy. The proposal reflects a balance between past and future, demonstrating that sustainable development is possible without sacrificing local identity. The “Plano Estratégico De Desenvolvimento Caldas da Rainha 2030” is available online, in Portuguese. ■
