Does Funchal Need an Emergency Housing Plan?
Marta Sofia, candidate of the political party Livre for the Funchal City Council and Municipal Assembly, presented an Emergency Housing Plan to tackle the city’s worsening housing crisis.
Why An Emergency Housing Plan is Needed
Rents rose 10% in August, deepening difficulties for young people, families, single residents, and pensioners, as housing prices remain high (e.g., studios starting at €130,000, average homes from €325,000).
The plan would be funded with public resources and the Municipal Tourist Tax (including cruise ship fees), expected to raise around €14 million annually.
As rents rise, many families struggle to survive. The future of Funchal depends on a balanced and responsible Municipal Master Plan (PDM) that protects the city’s identity and follows clear rules. Enough of dark buildings and aesthetics that ruin the urban landscape. Every new development must include affordable housing and green spaces, ensuring quality of life for everyone.
Marta Sofia, Diário de Notícias Madeira
Main Measures of The Emergency Housing Plan
15% of all housing (existing or new) must be public housing.
20% of units must be affordable rentals, at levels that don’t jeopardize basic living costs.
Incentives for developers who comply, including tax exemptions/reductions, temporary property tax (IMI) reductions, and priority licensing for eco-friendly, climate-adapted projects.
Inspiration from Portugal’s Sustainable Buildings Support Program, which funds energy efficiency and renovation.
Marta Sofia emphasizes that future urban development in Funchal must ensure affordable housing, protect the city’s identity, and include green spaces - rejecting designs that harm the urban landscape.
Source: Diário de Notícias Madeira
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