Real estate investment in high-risk coastal zones

The Northeast section of the Portuguese coastal zones has been subjected to intense urban development due to a social and economic conjuncture initiated mainly in the second half of the twentieth century. This phenomenon has been conducted over territories that are very vulnerable to natural processes, with visible signs demonstrated by an accentuated regression of the coastal line. At the present time, several situations of inland maritime incursions as well as damages over housing and infrastructures are being neglected, seen as inevitable. It is hence assumed pertinent the analysis of the process of coastal urban development facing the investor's demand in these kinds of territories, regarding better ways for territorial management due to the growing tourism pressure and leisure activities. Analysis of the regional instruments of territorial management demonstrates the inadequacy for communication with the investor's demand, by not giving a coherent and scientifically based strategy regarding the natural manifestations. This paper makes recommendations for dealing with natural changes without compromising economic and social growth by directly relating the main objectives with the weaknesses appointed. The conclusions relate the holistic approach necessary between public "empowerment", legal, institutional, and technical issues, for a better investment.