The Federal Office of Housing (BWO) and the cantonal planners of the Zurich Metropolitan Area commissioned the Center for Regional Economic Development at the University of Bern, in collaboration with IAZI, to investigate the contribution of spatial planning to rising housing costs. According to the study's findings, spatial planning plays a moderating role in the real estate market. Because it has an impact on construction activity, it influences housing costs, explains BWO in a statement on the study.
By limiting the availability of building land and zoning capacities, spatial planning controls the flexibility with which supply can adapt to the development of housing demand. The authors of the study state that when spatial planning is too strict, it can cause higher housing costs in the long term. However, spatial planning must equally protect the landscape and limit urban sprawl.
The study identifies inner development as the solution to this dilemma. This type of development offers an instrument "that both guarantees the protection of the landscape and increases the availability of living space". As a further tool, the study proposes rezoning, or the expansion of possible uses in a build zone. “Lengthy approval and appeal procedures” are also described as driving up the cost of housing.
From 3 to 7 November, the Swiss fair on housing Schweizer Wohntage 2023 will take place in Biel in the canton of Bern. On 6 November, the program will include an expert discussion on the question of internal development that leads to more affordable housing. ce/hs
