The Government’s proposal includes several key provisions:
1. Streamlined renewal process for residence permits: The proposal suggests making refinements to the renewal process for individuals who have already been granted residence permits. It also specifies that new applications for residence permits related to investments or support for artistic production, cultural heritage recovery, or maintenance will be considered if a declaration by GEPAC (General Directorate of Cultural Heritage) was issued before the law’s implementation.
2. Conversion of commercial properties into housing: The proposal aims to facilitate the conversion of commercial properties or service establishments into residential units. This conversion would not require a review of land use plans or housing licenses, provided that cost control measures are implemented.
3. Availability of land or public buildings for housing cooperatives: The Government plans to make land or public buildings accessible to housing cooperatives for construction or conversion into affordable rental homes. This initiative aims to increase the availability of affordable housing options.
4. Simplified licensing process: The proposed legislation suggests simplifying the licensing process for architectural projects. Instead of multiple approvals from public entities, licenses would be based solely on the designers’ term of responsibility. Furthermore, public entities would face penalties for delays in issuing opinions.
5. €250 million funding for affordable housing: The program includes the approval of a credit line, supported by mutual guarantees and interest rate subsidies, specifically for affordable housing projects. This funding would support construction, rehabilitation, property acquisition, and placement on the rental market.
6. Long-term affordability: The homes supported by this program must be allocated as affordable rental units for a minimum of 25 years, with the possibility of extending the duration as stated in the lease contract. After this period, municipalities and the IHRU (Institute of Housing and Urban Rehabilitation) will have preemptive rights to acquire these properties.
Entities eligible to participate in this program include housing cooperatives, commercial civil construction societies, municipalities, as well as charities and other social solidarity institutions.
