CHAPTER 7: RECOMMENDATIONS
7.1 Summary of the main conclusions
• The crisis is complex and has many dimensions. It would be an oversimplification to view the housing crisis as a mere issue of supply and demand. It encompasses a multitude of interrelated legal, economic, social and environmental concerns, which interact in a complex manner.
• There is room for improvement in current policies: It seems that traditional and isolated approaches may not be as effective as we would like them to be. It may be beneficial to consider ways of improving the effectiveness of proposed solutions, such as enhancing coordination between different levels of government and addressing the fragmentation of current policies.
• It would be remiss of us not to consider the potential of derelict buildings. It is important to recognise that abandoned properties present both a challenge and an opportunity. They offer a potential avenue for increasing housing supply, revitalising urban areas and promoting sustainability.
• A collaborative approach is essential to developing effective solutions adapted to local needs. The active participation of citizens and the formation of multidisciplinary teams are crucial to this process.
7.2 Strategic recommendations
Based on these conclusions, we propose the following recommendations for tackling the housing crisis in Portugal:
1. Establishment of a National Collaboration Platform
Objective: We must establish a long-lasting forum that brings together representatives from various sectors, including government, the private sector, academia, civil society and citizens. This forum will discuss and implement housing solutions.
Action: The government must lead the formation of this platform in partnership with non-governmental organisations and academic institutions, ensuring diverse representation and inclusion of voices from different sectors of society.
2. Review and simplification of the legal framework
Objective: We must update legislation related to housing, property and urban rehabilitation to facilitate the renovation of vacant buildings.
Action: Form a commission of legal experts and legislators to identify and remove legal barriers and propose changes to speed up licensing processes and encourage rehabilitation.
3. Financial and tax incentives and penalties
Objective: We must establish mechanisms that make it economically viable for owners and investors to rehabilitate vacant properties.
Action: Implement tax incentives, including a special regime for rehabilitation projects, and create low-interest credit lines in partnership with financial institutions.
4. Promoting Public-Private Partnerships
Objective: Mobilise private sector resources and expertise to increase the supply of affordable housing.
Action: Develop partnership models that clearly define responsibilities and benefits for both parties, ensuring that projects serve the public interest.
5. Implementation of Pilot Projects
Objective: We must test innovative solutions on a small scale before wider implementation.
Action: Select urban areas with a high number of vacant buildings to implement pilot projects that integrate sustainable rehabilitation, affordable housing and community participation.
6. Education and Public Awareness
Objective: We must raise awareness of the importance of urban regeneration and involve the community in the process.
Action: Educate citizens about the social, economic and environmental benefits of revitalising vacant buildings through the development of informative campaigns and workshops.
7. Alignment with Sustainability Goals
Objective: We must ensure that rehabilitation initiatives contribute to national and international sustainability and climate change targets.
Action: All rehabilitation projects must integrate sustainable construction, energy efficiency and circular economy principles.
7.3 Future prospects
We must accept that the housing crisis cannot be solved immediately or in isolation. It demands a long-term vision and an ongoing commitment from every single actor involved. By adopting a collaborative approach and integrating innovative solutions, we will solve the housing shortage and much more.
• Revitalizing urban centers. We will transform run-down areas into vibrant spaces that promote social and economic cohesion.
• Preserving cultural heritage. We must rehabilitate historic buildings and maintain the identity and collective memory of Portuguese cities.
• Promoting sustainability: We are reducing the ecological footprint of the construction sector and contributing to the sustainable development goals.
• Stimulating the economy: We will create jobs, attract investment, and foster economic growth through the construction and rehabilitation sector.
7.4 Class Action Appeal
These recommendations will succeed if all sectors of society are willing and committed to them. It is imperative that:
• The government must: The government must take a leading role, creating favorable legal and financial conditions and promoting coordination between different entities.
• The private sector must invest in rehabilitation projects, incorporating sustainable practices and responding to the population's housing needs.
• Civil society must actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that solutions reflect citizens' aspirations and concerns.
• Citizens must get involved in local initiatives, contributing ideas, time, and resources to improve their communities.