The LSAP has called for sweeping reforms to address Luxembourg City's housing and retail crises, accusing the current majority of failing to grasp the realities faced by residents and businesses.
The Luxembourg City chapter of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) has called for urgent measures to address the decline in housing and commerce in the capital. The party criticises the current DP-CSV majority for lacking a "coherent vision" and concrete understanding of the challenges facing local businesses and residents.
At a press conference on Thursday, LSAP representatives outlined their strategy to tackle the rising vacancy rates in both residential and commercial properties. Maxime Miltgen described the situation starkly: "The city centre may look beautiful and chic from the outside, but its heart is spoiled. Vacancy rates are rising, and retail trade is disappearing."
Gabriel Boisante questioned the majority's ability to address these issues effectively. "How can an administration that has never had to think like a retailer, understand their challenges, or fight for their business, turnover, and employees, truly grasp the reality of the situation", he asked.
Beyond criticism, the LSAP proposed concrete solutions. One key suggestion is to reduce rents for properties owned by the municipality. Miltgen explained: "If we lower rents and become a major player in the city's property market, we won't be unfair competition. Instead, we'll create an impact that could indirectly benefit other retailers by driving down overall rental costs."
The LSAP also emphasised the need to make Luxembourg City younger, more dynamic, and livelier. They advocate for a balanced mix of housing, jobs, shops, gastronomy, culture, and sports. Additionally, they called for better utilisation of public spaces by businesses such as shops, restaurants, and bars.
One specific measure proposed is the introduction of a tax on vacant premises. Miltgen noted that this should be achievable, as members of the municipal executive board also sit in the Chamber of Deputies and the current government. "They could push the government to implement such a tax, which would help combat vacancies in Luxembourg City", he said.
The LSAP also urged the city council to create a register of empty homes to address the ongoing housing crisis. This, they argue, would provide a clearer picture of available housing stock and help tackle the shortage of affordable homes.
