The proposal comes a month after it was first announced, following the Pope’s death on 21 April, and is intended to commemorate his visit to the site during the World Youth Day (WYD) in August 2023. The naming is a joint initiative with Loures Municipality, as the 100-hectare park spans both Lisbon and Loures. Tejo Park was created on the former Beirolas landfill as part of the city’s preparations for WYD.

Despite the broad support, councillors from PS and PCP raised concerns over the lack of formal green space development plan, with PS councillor Pedro Anastácio describing the area as an “unused open field”. PCP councillor João Ferreira agreed with honouring the Pope but stressed the need for further investment to make the park suitable for public use.

In response, Mayor Moedas stated a four-phase green park project is ready to be presented, aiming to expand the green corridor from Parque das Nações. He emphasised that there would be no construction or concrete, but more shade and facilities, and noted that the site is already being used by residents. Initial issues with maintenance and cleaning have been addressed, he added.

The council also unanimously approved naming streets after Snu Abecassis, a Danish publisher, and Maria Amélia Chaves, a civil engineer. Additionally, a previously unnamed street in Marvilla will be named after St Augustine, with Citizens for Lisbon abstaining.

Mayor Moedas also confirmed that infrastructure upgrades are ongoing in Bairro da Liberdade, visited by the Pope during WYD, with improvements planned for over 60 streets and future housing developments.