An opinion column published by Funchal Notícias, written by Rui Marote, criticises the state of Rua da Sé in Funchal, a street close to the heart of the city's history and identity that the author says has fallen into disrepair.
The author points to telecommunications cables multiplying across the façades of historic buildings, clothes lines hung over the public road, and the loss of tile panels on heritage buildings, including those of the former Casa Tavares. He also cites a lack of order in local commerce.
Among the problems listed are permanent iron bollards and new poles being installed for Christmas lighting, which the piece says make the street hard to navigate for elderly people, those with reduced mobility and parents with pushchairs on a street meant to be pedestrian-first. The author calls for firm action from inspectors and the relevant authorities.