In a statement, Leiria’s CIMRL expressed “perplexity and total opposition” to suggestions of rerouting the line along the left bank of the Tagus. Such a shift would move the planned station away from Barosa, near Leiria and Marinha Grande, in favour of Médio Tejo and Santarém. The organisation argued the alternative, promoted by private economic interests with the support of the Portuguese Business Confederation (CIP), “adds no value to the process and instead creates confusion in a project already delayed”.

By contrast, Médio Tejo officials welcomed the proposal, highlighting potential gains for territorial cohesion and local development. Manuel Jorge Valamatos, president of Médio Tejo’s CIM, said the route “benefits not only the region but also the wider interior”, stressing advantages for areas such as Santarém, Ourém, Fátima, Entroncamento, Tomar, and Abrantes. The proposal even extends towards Castelo Branco, Covilhã, and Guarda.

Developed by GV Consultores de Engenharia in partnership with ADFERSIT and CIP, the plan includes intermediate stations at Leiria/Fátima and Santarém, aiming to serve regional and tourism needs, such as attracting Fátima’s five million annual visitors and supporting industrial growth in Marinha Grande and Leiria.

Leiria’s CIM, however, pointed out that the Soure–Carregado section of the line already received a positive environmental impact assessment in July, paving the way for construction. They warned that altering the route would undermine years of studies, planning, and democratically validated decisions, urging the government to reject “economically driven distractions” that could delay execution.

The Lisbon–Porto HSR is designed for passenger travel at up to 300 km/h, with the Soure–Carregado section set to cross several municipalities, including Leiria, Pombal, and Marinha Grande.