Better planning for better housing

Europe is facing a housing crisis that is hitting cities and metropolitan areas hardest. The European Commission is seeking to accelerate the construction of affordable housing and is preparing a Housing Simplification Package. Perspective has contributed to this by responding to a call for evidence issued to national and regional authorities in Member States.

The Housing Simplification Package is one of the priorities of the European Affordable Housing Plan. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the impact of European legislation on the construction of affordable, sustainable and quality housing, and the barriers that may result from it. In order to draft this future text, the European Commission has issued a call for evidence. In this context, Perspective wanted to convey an important message: in tackling the housing crisis, we must also take land use planning into account. This simplification package is due to be presented in 2027.

A good knowledge of the local area is essential

Housing policy cannot be considered in isolation from land use planning. How to strike a balance between essential functions such as housing, economic activities, green spaces and mobility; and determining where to build housing, at what density, and in proximity to which services and infrastructure – these are issues that fall within the remit of land use planning. These decisions require a detailed analysis of the local area and its needs. Evaluating and anticipating them also helps to avoid difficulties and costs in the longer term.

Perspective supports the aim of simplification but believes that it must go beyond simply accelerating the issuing of permits. More integrated tools and processes, shared databases, and common methodologies, definitions and terminology at European level could facilitate the land use planning process and streamline procedures.

Making better use what already exists to respond to the crisis

It is vital to build faster, but building better and making full use of what already exists is just as important. Perspective therefore encourages the European Commission to support the reuse and conversion of existing buildings, materials and spaces.

To achieve this, the Commission would, in particular, need to align the European regulatory framework (certifications, regulatory barriers to reuse, etc.) and strengthen innovation to help cities and metropolitan areas reuse derelict areas and vacant buildings, and develop innovative housing models.

Do not lose sight of European ambitions

Perspective calls on the Commission to use simplification as a means of facilitating the implementation of Europe’s affordable housing ambitions. However, care must be taken to maintain a balance and ensure consistency with the ambitious social, environmental and climate goals that Europe has set itself.