Regional Government moves forward with Algar do Carvão Natural Monument Interpretation and Visiting Support Centre
The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism stated today that the Regional Government, through the Regional Directorate for the Environment, in partnership with the "Os Montanheiros" Association is developing the project for the construction of the Algar do Carvão Natural Monument Interpretation and Visiting Support Centre on Terceira Island.
Marta Guerreiro spoke on the sidelines of a meeting with the leaders of the "Os Montanheiros Association" that took place on the first day of the Regional Government's visit to Terceira Island. On the occasion, she stated that “architectural and engineering studies are expected to be completed soon so that the project can be presented in the celebrations of the Association's 56th anniversary on November 30.”
According to the government official, the project comprises a covered area of about 900 m2. It will offer “a wider visitor support space that also includes an exhibition circuit, a small auditorium and reception areas, a bar, a shop and sanitary facilities, a parking area with increased capacity and upgraded outdoor spaces."
The planned investment is about 1.2 million Euros, with an allocation of one million Euros provided for in the proposed 2020 Investment Plan.
The Secretary for the Environment also pointed out that the Algar do Carvão was the most visited volcanic cave in the Region last year, having received 62,186 people.
“In the last decade (2009 to 2018), this natural monument received about 340,000 visitors,” said Marta Guerreiro.
The Algar do Carvão was initially classified as a Geological Natural Reserve and has been reclassified as a Natural Monument as part of Terceira Island Natural Park since April 2011.