A cup of tea with the Forest Guardians at Quinta dos Ingleses in Carcavelos (Lisbon, Portugal)

On Saturday 17th of May 2025, the Quinta dos Ingleses was re-entered and occupied by a crowd of local environmental activists. The Quinta (Estate of the English, in Portuguese) is a very controversial 50+ hectare green space by the sea at Carcavelos, just outside Lisbon, that the local city council have recently given permission to “develop”, despite massive opposition from the local community, local environmental laws not being heeded, dodgy democratic decision making, and recommendations not to proceed from the National Government.

About 100 local activists marched around the now fenced off area where trees have started to be destroyed. A breach of the fence was found and about 30 activists entered, ranging from about 5 to 80 years old. Many slept overnight and this discussion happened over a delivery of tea, coffee and snacks to keep the spirits high.

The direct action got considerable coverage on local and National TV, with interviewed activists outlining why they feel they have been forced to take this radical action. Despite environmental rules prohibiting building near the beach, Cascais City Council has given the go-ahead to dig 5 stories underground for super luxury apartment blocks and more shopping. The local community are angry and say their world is not for sale.