Councils told to make sure they have 30% social housing

Photo: DutchNews.nl

Housing minister Hugo de Jonge wants all local authorities in the country to ensure at least 30% of their housing falls into the rent controlled category. This means there will be enough social housing for everyone who needs it, and the spread across the Netherlands will be more equitable, the minister told MPs this week.

Councils which already meet the target – and that includes all the big Dutch cities – can then concentrate on ensuring there is enough housing for people on middle incomes, who are currently being squeezed, De Jonge said.

In addition, councils have been told to draw up a plan to ensure that particular groups in society, such as former prisoners or people with physical and mental disabilities, can also have a home of their own.

‘Everyone deserves a home but it can be difficult for people who need extra care to find something suitable,’ De Jonge said. ‘Every local authority has the responsibility to make sure there is sufficient housing for these groups. That means more social housing and proper support.’

By 2030, housing corporations should have built 250,000 new rent-controlled properties spread across the country, the minister said. Social housing is earmarked for low earners, with a maximum rent of €763.

Research by Trouw has showed that two thirds of local authority areas do not meet the target, mainly in rural areas. In Amsterdam, by contrast, nearly half the housing stock is rent controlled, and in Groningen 60%.