The European Commission plans to present a legislative proposal in the second quarter of 2027 to simplify housing regulations and increase the supply of homes in the European Union. This initiative is part of the Commission's 2027 work program, which includes 23 new initiatives. The proposal aims to reduce bureaucracy and facilitate construction and renovation projects, building on the European Affordable Housing Plan.
The Commission's proposal is driven by the need to address the housing crisis in Europe, which is not only an economic necessity but also essential for alleviating anxiety affecting many Europeans. The housing sector is one of the areas where the Commission wants to deepen regulatory simplification, alongside transport and digital sectors. By streamlining regulations, the Commission hopes to make it easier for citizens to access affordable housing and for businesses to invest and grow.
The Commission's work program for 2027 also includes a proposal to accelerate licensing for strategic projects, aiming to attract additional investment. This proposal is expected to be presented in the third quarter of 2027. The Commission's goal is to reduce unnecessary burdens and implementation failures in areas such as transport, housing, and digital, and to accelerate licensing processes. Valdis Dombrovskis, European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, emphasized the importance of working with the Parliament, Council, and member states to achieve these objectives.
The Affordable Housing Act, proposed on September 9, 2026, is among the 24 pending legislative dossiers that the Commission considers priorities. This regulation aims to establish a framework for member states to ensure accessible and available housing. The Commission is urging the Parliament and Council to reach a swift agreement on priority dossiers and maintain a high level of ambition in negotiations, including on simplification.
The Commission's work program also includes measures to support the installation of heat pumps and reduce the initial costs for families. To achieve this, the Commission plans to study the creation of a market mechanism for clean heating. Additionally, the Commission will review the nature protection directives, including the Birds and Habitats directives and the Natura 2000 network, in the third quarter of 2027.
The review of the nature protection directives aims to assess whether the legal framework needs changes to continue fulfilling its objectives effectively and simply. The Commission's goal is to ensure that the regulatory framework supports the goals of the European Green Deal and the EU's climate and environmental objectives. By simplifying regulations and reducing bureaucracy, the Commission hopes to create a more favorable environment for investment and growth.
The European Commission's proposals for housing simplification and regulatory review are part of a broader effort to address the housing crisis and support sustainable growth in the European Union. The Commission's work program for 2027 reflects its commitment to reducing bureaucracy and promoting a more coherent and competitive European market. By working with the Parliament, Council, and member states, the Commission aims to achieve its objectives and create a more favorable environment for citizens and businesses.
Key points
- The European Commission will present a legislative proposal in 2027 to simplify housing regulations and increase the supply of homes in the EU.
- The proposal aims to reduce bureaucracy and facilitate construction and renovation projects, building on the European Affordable Housing Plan.
- The Commission's work program for 2027 includes 23 new initiatives, including measures to support the installation of heat pumps and review of nature protection directives.
