Housing in Europe – A New Strategy for Affordability

Is the housing crisis an Ireland-only problem, or a European emergency? In this episode, Roslyn Molloy sits down with industry expert Carol Tallon to dissect the first-ever EU Affordable Housing Plan. Following her participation at the EU Housing Summit in Galway, Carol explains why Ireland holds an "outsized influence" on European policy and what the 2025 EU Affordable Housing Plan means for housing delivery.

 

We explore the transition from traditional building to Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), the reform of restrictive State Aid rules, and why the European Commission is now treating housing not just as a market issue, but as a "social emergency" vital to the survival of democracy.

 

Key Discussion Points

• The Irish Influence in Brussels: Why Irish MEPs and experts (like Sorcha Edwards and John O'Connor) are helping shape EU housing policy.

• The 4 Pillars of the EU Affordable Housing Plan:

1. Boosting Supply: Focusing on new homes and innovation.
2. Mobilizing Investment: Unlocking a €43 billion pot through the EIB and private capital.
3. Immediate Support & Reform: Tackling short-term rentals and market speculation.
4. Protecting the Vulnerable: Addressing the "Right to Live Where You Serve" for essential workers.

• State Aid Reform: How changing EU rules will allow governments to directly subsidize affordable housing and de-risk construction innovation.

• The "Right to Stay": A look at rural proofing and ensuring the next generation can live and work in their own communities.

• Placemaking & Technology: Carol’s PhD research on using immersive tech (VR/AR) to meet citizens "where they are at" to improve public participation in planning.

 

Resources & Links

• The Housing Agency: housingagency.ie

• New European Bauhaus: Official EU Website

• Property District: propertydistrict.ie

• Carol Tallon on LinkedIn: Connect here

• European Affordable Housing Plan: The European Affordable Housing Plan - Housing - European Commission

• An Overview of the Role of the European Union in relation to Housing Policy and Delivery: Overview of the Role of the EU in Housing Policy and Delivery.pdf