Public developer SNHBM, the National Society for Affordable Housing, can now start construction in the former military area where 184 apartments are to be built.
91% of these accommodations will eventually be rented out at affordable rates, stressed project rapporteur Semiray Ahmedova from the Greens following the vote on Tuesday.
MP Marc Lies from the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) criticised the involvement of the SHNBM. He argued that due to the current situation on the housing market, the government should have tasked a private developer with the project as a means of stimulating business and relieving public firms.
Housing Minister Henri Kox acknowledged this as a valid position to be considered for future undertakings, but explained that the expertise of the SNHBM allowed for an increase in the density of the project at hand.
MPs were generally favourable towards the project as it stipulates green spaces, apartments for military personnel, and administrative buildings.
MP Nathalie Oberweis from the Left praised the fact that the project will increase the government’s stock of rented flats.
Minister Kox responded that this is part of the government’s strategy and therefore expressed hopes that the ‘Elmen II’ and ‘Itzeger Knupp’ projects can still be passed in the current legislative period.
