Calheta - Portugal

Nestled on the picturesque southwest coast of Madeira, Portugal, Calheta is a municipality that encapsulates both charm and potential in its urban landscape. With a population of approximately 11,521 as recorded in 2011, this area spans 111.50 km², offering residents and visitors alike a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As part of Madeira's dynamic environment, Calheta offers an intriguing case study for urban livability analysis, showcasing both its strengths and areas ripe for growth. Strengths: Commute and Urban Development Calheta shines with its commendable commute score of B-, indicative of a city on the right path towards sustainable urban planning. The local transport network, though not extensive, provides functional connectivity within the area, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance public transit services. Residents benefit from strategic land use policies that facilitate reasonable access to amenities and workplaces, fostering an environment conducive to effective daily commutes. Urban redevelopment projects are gradually shaping Calheta's landscape, aimed at improving living quality indices. The municipality’s focus on sustainable urban development is evident in its commitment to integrating eco-friendly practices into urban planning. This approach not only aligns with global trends towards environmental consciousness but also enhances the overall quality of life for its inhabitants. Challenges: Amenities and Health Despite these efforts, Calheta faces challenges, particularly in areas such as amenities and health, both scoring a C+. While local resources are accessible, there is room for improvement in terms of variety and availability. Enhancing access to healthcare remains a priority, with initiatives aimed at improving health-related quality of life through better medical facilities and services. The childcare and education score of C highlights another area requiring attention. Efforts are underway to bolster educational infrastructure, ensuring children have access to quality education that prepares them for future opportunities. Culture, Entertainment, and Community With a culture and entertainment score also at C+, Calheta offers a moderate cultural scene that reflects its rich heritage. The city is beginning to invest in initiatives that promote local arts and community events, seeking to enrich the cultural fabric of the municipality. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to elevate the living quality index by providing diverse recreational options for residents. Balancing Noise and Community Preferences The NIMBY score of A- suggests strong community engagement and preference towards maintaining certain aspects of local development while avoiding others that may disrupt their way of life. However, with a noise score of B, there is an opportunity to further refine urban planning strategies to mitigate sound pollution, enhancing the overall residential experience. Conclusion Calheta stands as a testament to the potential inherent in well-considered urban livability analysis. While it faces challenges in certain areas such as amenities and health services, its strengths in commute efficiency and community engagement provide a solid foundation for growth. As Calheta continues to evolve through sustainable urban development initiatives, there is optimism that it will climb higher on both the city livability ranking and global liveability index. In essence, Calheta embodies a promising balance of natural allure and developmental potential, positioning itself as a vibrant community committed to enhancing its quality of life for all residents. With ongoing efforts in urban redevelopment and sustainable planning, this municipality is well-poised to achieve new heights in urban livability.
Praia da Calheta view from the top
Praia da Calheta view from the top

Calheta

Calheta
Country: Portugal
Population: 11521
Elevation: 35.0 metre
Area: 111.42 square kilometre
Web: http://www.cm-calheta-madeira.com/
Area code: 291
Overall score
Total
ScoreC+
Amenities
ScoreC+
Childcare & Education
ScoreC
Commute
ScoreB-
Culture & Entertainment
ScoreC+
Health
ScoreC+
NIMBY
ScoreA-
Noise
ScoreB