PP Unveils Housing and Infrastructure Strategy Ahead of November 29 Elections
Alberto Núñez Feijóo proposes tax cuts, housing guarantees, and a massive infrastructure investment plan.
1Housing Policy Overhaul
The Partido Popular, led by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, has unveiled a housing strategy for the November 29 elections. The plan focuses on expanding public mortgage guarantees and implementing significant tax reductions. Feijóo aims to create a generation of homeowners by prioritizing supply-side measures over the current government's rent control policies.
2Expanding Mortgage Guarantees
The PP proposes extending public mortgage guarantees from the current age limit of 35 to 40, with potential expansion up to 50. This mechanism aims to cover the down payment gap for buyers who lack family savings. The party argues this will democratize access to home ownership for younger generations.
3Tax Relief Measures
A core component of the proposal is reducing the VAT on first-time home purchases from 10% to 4% for buyers under 40. Furthermore, the party plans to allow this tax to be paid in installments alongside the mortgage. They also intend to negotiate reduced property transfer taxes with autonomous regions.
4Supply and Deregulation
Feijóo has pledged to construct one million new homes during his term. To accelerate development, he proposes a 'positive administrative silence' rule, where building licenses are automatically granted if municipalities fail to respond within 90 days. This measure shifts the responsibility to developers to ensure compliance with general urban plans.
5Repealing Current Legislation
The PP confirms it will repeal the current housing law enacted by the Sánchez coalition government. Feijóo argues that existing decrees harm both tenants and landlords by reducing the available rental stock. The party rejects price caps and eviction suspensions, favoring market-driven solutions to address the housing crisis in Spain.
6National Infrastructure Plan
Beyond housing, the PP announced a 300 billion euro National Infrastructure Plan spanning 15 years. This initiative aims to modernize highways, high-speed rail, and water networks. The project relies on collaboration with the private sector, though the specific ratio of public versus private funding remains currently unspecified by the party.
7Transport and Rail Focus
The infrastructure plan prioritizes maintenance and safety, including addressing over 1,000 speed restrictions on rail lines. The party intends to renew aging trains and tracks, specifically targeting the Andalusia high-speed corridor. Additionally, they plan to implement urgent passenger assistance protocols for train delays and improve safety on 26,500 kilometers of roads.
8Political Campaign Context
As the November 29 election approaches, the PP faces scrutiny over its refusal to debate on public television, preferring private networks. Meanwhile, party officials have voiced concerns regarding electoral integrity. These policy proposals serve as the foundation of the PP's platform to challenge the incumbent government's social and economic record.