Record investments in social housing

“Never before has so much money gone into the construction and renovation of social housing as in 2016,” says Flemish Minister of Housing Liesbeth Homans. With an investment budget of EUR 866 million, good for 4,176 extra homes and 4,259 renovations, 2016 was an absolute record year for Flanders.

“Thanks to this high rhythm and the accompanying record amounts, we are already ahead of the current milestone in the growth path for 2025, as outlined in the Flemish Parliament Act on Land and Buildings,” Liesbeth Homans explains. “In total, 28,705 social housing units have already been added.”

Focus on renovation

Not only were there vigorous investments last year in the building of social housing, noticeably more resources went on renovation too. “That is not insignificant for social tenants,” Liesbeth Homans notes. “After all, too many of them today pay more for their energy bills than their actual rent.”

Increasing accessibility is also an important element, both in new builds and in renovations. “In this way, we are ensuring not only that people can stay in their homes longer, but also that social housing is accessible to persons with a disability,” the Minister concludes.