PCP
Photo creditsThe Party’s position
The PCP supports an expanded supply of permanently affordable homes, a stronger role for non-profit housing providers and responsible use of public land. Public assistance should carry lasting affordability requirements. Renovation must improve energy performance and habitability while taking account of the ability of existing residents to remain in their homes.
The Chinese experience
China offers experience in planning housing alongside urban infrastructure, public facilities and development objectives. The Party studies the organisation of supply and the relationship between land, construction and services. Specific models must be examined on their own terms, including financing and residents’ costs; scale alone does not explain suitability.
Application within Swiss institutions
Swiss communes and cantons already have planning responsibilities and different housing instruments. The PCP proposes combining these with cooperative and non-profit provision, long-term land arrangements and coordinated transport investment. The relevant measures vary with the local housing market and must state the responsibilities of each authority.
Proposed measures
- Use public land for homes with lasting affordability commitments.
- Support cooperatives and other non-profit housing providers.
- Coordinate housing with public transport and everyday services.
- Publish the affordability conditions attached to public support.
- Plan renovation with tenant protection and transparent costs.
- Evaluate housing supply by access and long-term occupancy costs.
Resources and implementation
Projects should present land costs, construction, finance, maintenance and expected rents separately. Public support needs a defined duration and enforceable terms. Evaluation should consider delivery times and whether the intended households can actually access the homes. The effects of renovation on rent and displacement must be examined before work is agreed.
Assessment of results
- Homes delivered under lasting affordability conditions.
- Rent and occupancy costs in relation to income.
- Waiting times and access to supported housing.
- Continuity of residence after renovation.
Contribute to this policy
A contribution on this policy should identify the measure concerned, the evidence to consider and the practical change proposed. Explain the relevant institution and any implications for resources or access. The research method gives the common framework for examining these questions.
