The transfer of the Cais Comercial to Faro Council is due to be signed on 18 September, with Mayor António Miguel Pina linking the site to the future development of nautical tourism in the city.

Speaking during Faro's City Day celebrations, Pina said the city has the conditions to create what he described as one of the best natural marinas in the country.

The municipality's plans for the area include a recreational marina with capacity for around 500 boats, as well as a multipurpose commercial port and a scientific residence, with the project for the latter reportedly almost completed.

The future of the Commercial Quay has been discussed for years. Its transfer to Faro Council could now allow the municipality to move forward with plans for the area, which sits right next to the Ria Formosa.

For the mayor, developing the waterfront is also part of a wider ambition to strengthen Faro's economy and make better use of its connection with the Ria Formosa.

He highlighted nautical activities, tourism, heritage and culture as areas with potential to bring more economic activity to the city throughout the year and help reduce seasonality.

The plans come as Faro looks at several major projects for the coming years, including new housing, improvements to mobility and the creation of spaces dedicated to innovation and technology.

However, details surrounding the marina itself are still limited. No timetable for construction or investment figure has yet been announced.

The Commercial Quay is located next to the Ria Formosa, a protected natural area which is also part of the Natura 2000 network, meaning that environmental restrictions will have to be considered as the plans move forward.

A new marina in Faro has been discussed for several years. With the Commercial Quay now set to pass into the hands of the council, the municipality will have more control over the future of the area.