Reimagining Alverca: A Holistic Approach to Urban Transformation
Alverca do Ribatejo is a town in Vila Franca de Xira, one of the 18 municipalities that make up the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.
Together with partners like Nhood and IST.ID, the project showcases the power of nature-based urban renewal. This collaborative effort creates greener, multi-purpose spaces – new housing, green areas, a health clinic, and sports facilities – all designed with residents’ input.
Data-driven assessments, community engagement, and long-term sustainability plans ensure lasting positive change, aligning with regional and European goals.

The neighbourhood
ReGreeneration targets the Ceetrus AUCHAN commercial area, located at the southern entrance of the city, and a vacant space next to the urbanisation of Malvarosa. These two areas, divided by a large road, are connected by a pedestrian bridge built in 2022.
The project aims to demonstrate the positive impact of ecologically based solutions for urban regeneration, fostering multipurpose, greener, and climatically adapted spaces co-created with the community.
Key challenges
Auchan commercial area
Despite the high influx of visitors, there is currently no green or blue infrastructure either to provide amenity to this space or to produce urban cooling and comfort for the population’s wellbeing.
Malvarosa
While it has some green areas, it currently lacks sports and recreational facilities to serve the population, especially young residents.

Proposed transformation
ReGreeneration wants to enhance urban spaces, creating climate-adapted urban spaces accessible to all by:
- Enhancing the area with green spaces and public amenities like a gymnasium and health clinic
- Creating sustainable housing solutions
- Establishing green and recreational spaces in Malva Rosa
Expected results
Anticipated outcomes include a significant increase in public green spaces and permeable areas, fostering biodiversity, climate resilience, and urban cooling. Moreover, the project aims to promote alternative modes of transportation, reduce congestion, and improve air quality, contributing to a more liveable and inclusive urban environment.