After several months of uncertainty, authorities have confirmed that the construction of a long-awaited, state-of-the-art oncology centre is moving forward in Loulé. The facility is considered vital for cancer patients in the Algarve, who continue having to travel long distances for life-saving care.
The Centro Oncológico Regional Integrado do Sul (CORIS) is part of a larger €17 million investment in public healthcare across the region, with over €10 million being covered by community funding via the Algarve 2030 program following a bid presented by the Algarve Local Health Unit (ULS).
The new unit is set to provide a major boost to cancer care in the Algarve, says the regional development commission CCDR Algarve in a statement to the press, improving “cancer prevention, early diagnosis, specialised treatment and follow-up treatment.”
According to CCDR Algarve, the Oncology Centre will be spread across several existing National Health Service (SNS) infrastructures, as well as a new dedicated building to be built in Loulé.
The municipal council of Loulé has also contributed €1.4 million toward the national co-funding share and provided land for the oncology facility.
Beyond the new facility, the €17 million initiative will modernise operating theatres at the region’s three public hospitals – Faro, Portimão, and Lagos – through the purchase of advanced endoscopic surgery, microscopy, and imaging equipment. It will also enhance diagnostic and therapeutic capacity in oncological pulmonology, with new videothoracoscopy and respiratory function systems, CCDR Algarve says.
The announcement provides renewed hope for cancer patients and their families in the Algarve and the Alentejo, who for years have faced journeys of over 300 kilometres to receive the care they need in cities like Lisbon and Seville (Spain).
The “execution of the project” is scheduled for the first half of 2027, CCDR Algarve adds.
In previous announcements, authorities have estimated that the oncology centre will provide crucial services to 3,500 patients annually, with a projected reach of 14,200 patients by 2029.
Troubled history
Reaching this point was not easy for a project that has faced many setbacks and roadblocks.
Originally set for completion by the end of 2024, the project was due to be built at Parque das Cidades in Loulé, near the Algarve Stadium and the Algarve’s future Central Hospital. But concerns were raised earlier this year by the local council which feared that the project would violate the area’s Detailed Plan (Plano de Pormenor).
While the local council immediately expressed its willingness to find another location for the centre, the project was put on hold as those in charge sought a solution – one that has seemingly been found, once and for all.
