Barcelona Council has approved a new ordinance relaxing the right of first refusal and repurchase for acquiring properties.

This move aims to significantly increase the city’s stock of affordable housing.

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The regulation passed with support from the governing coalition, BComú, and ERC, while Junts abstained and the PP and Vox voted against it.

Key Measures to Expand Affordable Housing Stock

Consequently, the updated ordinance strengthens the municipal council’s ability to exercise pre-emptive purchase rights. This strategy targets areas where finding land for new construction is particularly difficult. Housing Deputy Mayor Jordi Valls defended the policy as a necessary response to the public interest in housing. He emphasised the urgent need to address housing rights and affordability, stating this required opening multiple fronts, including purchase and acquisition through these rights.

The ordinance, initially approved in committee last March, now provides a complete legal framework. This framework grants security to all involved agents and operators. Furthermore, it aligns with the municipal government’s broader strategy to expand public housing through all available means. For instance, in August, the council used this right for the first time to purchase an 11-flat building in Gràcia at a judicial auction, adding it to the protected housing park.

Additionally, the council can now decline a purchase and transfer the right to third parties. Eligible entities include public housing promoters, legal occupants of a property, or private or non-profit organisations focused on protected housing. A notable measure allows for joint acquisition between the council and potential beneficiaries, with the council holding a minimum one-third share.

Historic Via Laietana Building to Become Administrative Hub

Meanwhile, the council also approved the purchase of a *noucentista* building at Via Laietana 8-10. This €22 million acquisition from the 2025 budget will give the council nearly 50% ownership of the property. Once operational, the building will house over 700 municipal workers.

Beyond improving public resource efficiency, this purchase will free up space in the Gothic Quarter. This space could generate nearly 80 new public homes and allow for the construction of the CAP Gòtic health centre. Deputy Mayor Valls highlighted the project as an ideal scenario for recovering historic buildings for economic activity, benefiting both the city and Via Laietana. The building is already in its first rehabilitation phase, which began in December 2023 on the upper floors owned by the council. This €18.7 million reform is scheduled for completion in October next year.

This policy shift comes as the city explores all avenues to tackle its housing shortage. The council’s move to actively acquire private property marks a significant step in its affordable housing strategy. For more context on local governance and urban challenges, readers can explore our coverage of the recent incidents affecting Barcelona’s public transport system. Furthermore, the broader issue of housing access is a constant theme, as seen in resources like our guide on finding a home in Barcelona.

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