Barcelona City Council, in collaboration with the Consorci de la Zona Franca de Barcelona (CZFB), is advancing plans to construct 1,603 affordable homes across the city. The Institut Municipal de l’Habitatge de Barcelona (IMHAB) recently launched a public tender for the first 350 units. This significant initiative aims to alleviate Barcelona’s persistent housing crisis.

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Last May, the Ajuntament and CZFB signed a pivotal agreement. Under this accord, CZFB ceded 15 plots of land to the City Council. These plots total 128,238 square metres. They are primarily located in the Sant Andreu district and the La Marina del Prat Vermell neighbourhood in Sants-Montjuïc.

Initially, these sites were designated for 1,136 market-rate homes and 467 affordable units. However, the new agreement ensures all 1,603 planned residences will be affordable housing. Specifically, 1,052 homes will be built in La Marina del Prat Vermell, and 551 in the former Casernes military barracks in Sant Andreu.

Rafael Angulo from Metropolitan House commented on the viability of such projects. He stated, “Social housing is viable, but with very tight margins.” This highlights the financial challenges involved in delivering affordable homes. The City Council’s commitment underscores the urgent need for accessible housing options.

First Public Tender Launched

IMHAB published a public tender on 26 March for the initial three plots from the CZFB agreement. This tender covers the promotion, construction, and management of 350 homes. These units will be located at Carrer Motors, 111-113, providing 91 homes. Another 61 homes are planned for Carrer Motors, 115-117. Passeig de Torras i Bages, 129-133, will host 198 homes.

This latest tender represents the second such call for proposals by the City Council. The first edition was published in December 2024, according to official reports. That tender offered three plots for 350 homes. These were located in La Marina del Prat Vermell and Diagonal Mar i el Front Marítim del Poblenou.

Those projects are already adjudicated, and teams are currently drafting the various designs. Officials expect construction work on these initial projects to commence in 2027. This phased approach allows for continuous development of affordable housing solutions.

Expanding Affordable Housing Initiatives

The recently published second tender also includes proposals for an additional 275 homes. These will be situated at Carrer Venezuela, 30-35, in Provençals del Poblenou. Another site is Avinguda Diagonal, 59-63, within the Diagonal Mar i el Front Marítim area.

Both tenders encourage participation from private entities. This includes both for-profit and non-profit organisations. The City Council grants surface rights for a period of 75 years. This term is extendable for an additional 15 years, up to a maximum of 90 years.

Upon the conclusion of this period, the local government will regain ownership of the constructed buildings. Adjudicated social entities and companies will undertake the construction of these homes. They will also manage the subsequent rental agreements.

Criteria for Sustainable and Inclusive Homes

Residents registered in the Barcelona Official Protected Housing Register can access these affordable rentals. The agreement between the Ajuntament and CZFB will remain valid until 2029. It also includes an option for a four-year extension.

Proposals for the new housing developments will undergo rigorous evaluation. Key criteria include the provision of social support for families. The availability of a concierge service, also responsible for building maintenance, is another important factor.

Furthermore, evaluators will consider plans for conservation, maintenance, and rehabilitation. This includes technical inspections and the submission of a building logbook. Architectural designs prioritising inclusive housing will receive favourable consideration. Industrialised, sustainable production methods are also preferred.

Assessors will also positively evaluate proposals incorporating specific criteria for flat typology and distribution. They will examine living spaces and their relationship with the exterior. Factors like solar orientation, ventilation, and views are important. This ensures high-quality living environments for future residents.

To address potential tenant issues, the plan includes establishing a social commission. This commission will comprise representatives from IMHAB, the City Council, and the adjudicating entities. It will monitor tenants and resolve conflicts related to non-payment or misuse of properties. This ensures community harmony and property upkeep.

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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta – Urban Life. Read original article.