Catalan authorities have decided to shake up the real estate market by announcing a tender for the development of 37 vacant plots across the region. On these lands, which have so far remained unused, almost two thousand apartments are set to be built, intended for long-term rental at affordable prices. The lease period for future tenants could reach up to 75 years—a figure that immediately caught the attention of experts and potential residents.
This time, the initiative isn’t limited to the regional capital. The project involves 23 municipalities, ranging from large cities to small towns. Officials insist: this is just the first wave, and the number of such projects will increase in the coming years. The Catalan government is clearly determined to change the rules of the rental market.
A new map of change
The list of cities where new housing will appear is notably diverse. It includes places such as Sant Adrià de Besòs, Terrassa, Tarragona, Figueres, and La Seu d’Urgell. Each of these municipalities has allocated land to kick off the construction. The territories are divided into four groups based on geography: from Barcelona and Vallès to the Pyrenees and central Catalonia.
Authorities emphasize that the choice of locations is no coincidence. Each was selected based on actual rental demand and development potential. Some cities have long faced a shortage of affordable housing, and this project is intended to address the needs of local residents.
A new set of rules
The competition terms are unusual even by Spain’s standards. Winners will not only construct the buildings, but also take on full management responsibilities, from signing rental contracts and maintenance to providing social support for residents. This approach aims to ensure these apartments become true homes for thousands of families, rather than soulless concrete blocks.
The lease term—up to 75 years—seems almost extraordinary when compared to typical Spanish norms. This is more than a temporary fix; it’s an attempt to create a long-term housing stock that will benefit society for decades. Authorities assure that strict oversight will be maintained over both construction quality and building management.
Strategy and ambition
The Catalan government makes no secret of its ambitions. The project is part of a long-term strategy to increase the share of social housing. Under the plan, by 2030 at least 15% of the housing stock in the most in-demand cities will be allocated to social programs. These are not just numbers on paper—they reflect real actions and investments.
In the coming years, new tenders are expected to launch, aiming to bring even more municipal land into circulation. Authorities are counting on partnerships with private companies to speed up the process and ensure maximum transparency. However, not all experts share the officials’ optimism: some fear that such large-scale projects may face bureaucratic hurdles and lengthy approval procedures.
Reaction and expectations
Public opinion on the initiative is divided. Some see it as a real chance for young families and low-income individuals to finally secure a home. Others worry the allocation process may end up lacking transparency, and that the homes themselves might not be as affordable as promised by officials. Nevertheless, interest in the project is immense: dozens of construction firms and cooperatives are submitting applications to participate in the tenders.
While some debate the prospects, others are already making plans for the future. If the project is fully implemented, Catalonia could set an example for other regions in Spain facing similar challenges with affordable housing. That said, the first move-ins are still a long way off—a difficult path of approvals, construction, and paperwork lies ahead.
RUSSPAIN reminds that the Generalitat de Catalunya is the highest governing body of the autonomous community of Catalonia, holding broad authority over domestic policy, the economy, and social welfare. In recent years, the regional government has actively implemented innovative strategies to address housing and social issues, aiming to improve the quality of life for its citizens and make Catalonia more attractive to young professionals and families.
