FISH MARKET OF PORTINHO DE CASTELO DE NEIVA, 2018-2020

The Pedra Alta Maritime Centre is located in the parish of Castelo de Neiva, approximately 12 km from the city of Viana do Castelo. A place of significant ecological and cultural interest, the Atlantic coastline of the municipality is strongly shaped by a temperate climate and its remarkable geographical exposure.

 

This area is part of a wider network of beaches that are generally sought after for their natural beauty and for the variety of activities available, such as fishing and water sports. In Pedra Alta in particular, fishing plays a major role both from an economic and local sustainability perspective, as well as from a cultural and touristic standpoint.

 

Within the framework of the actions developed by the Polis Litoral Norte Society, the Reorganisation and Qualification Project of the Pedra Alta Maritime Front – Docapesca Intervention Area – included the construction of a new Fish Auction House and Warehouse building.

 

The proposed building is composed of two distinct volumes: one dedicated to the fish auction facility and all associated operational services, and the other providing a storage space with sanitary facilities. It is developed on a single floor, with a total footprint of approximately 400m².

 

Fish Auction Volume
The fish reception area is located on the northern side, next to the boat parking area. The roof extension provides shelter to this zone, creating a protected area for unloading and receiving fish. Buyers have access only to the buyers’ gallery. The fish exits on the eastern side, through a dedicated ante-room that connects directly to the exhibition/auction area. The support spaces for the auction house (sanitary facilities and changing rooms, hygiene room and technical installations) are located on the southern side of this volume, with access through the corridor/patio that separates the two volumes.

 

Other Volume
This contains the storage space and all associated sanitary facilities.

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The two volumes, with reinforced concrete structure and masonry block walls, are externally finished with fine white-painted render. Above the corridor that separates the auction house from the bar, the roof is opened up, creating a courtyard that provides access to the service areas of the auction house. Access to the corridor is controlled by a gate.

 

The external flooring under the roofed area (canopy) is made of grey granite slabs, a robust and durable material, easy to clean and non-slip, ensuring hygiene and safety during the use of the building. The base wall finish up to 50 cm in height also serves a protective function throughout the building. The interior surfaces, both walls and floors, are made of continuous, resistant materials, easily washable and compliant with the food safety standards required for the building. Corners and edges are rounded, and all installed equipment complies with current regulations.