This initiative plans to add 169 units in eight municipalities in Bizkaia, 377 homes in six towns in Araba, and 268 in nine municipalities in Gipuzkoa. Specifically for Busturialdea, 53 units are planned: 24 protected homes in Mundaka, 15 in Errigoiti, and 14 in Ea.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Agenda, Denis Itxaso, emphasized the importance of addressing housing "as a tool for territorial balance and social cohesion." He stated, "Talking about housing in small municipalities in Bizkaia, Araba, and Gipuzkoa is not talking about a minor, peripheral, or accessory issue. It is about aging, about rooting oneself in a vibrant and dynamic environment that offers opportunities, about economic activity, public services, and ultimately, about democracy."
The minister explained that small municipalities face "similar housing problems" to larger cities but require responses tailored to their scale. Challenges vary by location, including price, lack of supply, aging housing stock, and insufficient prepared land. Therefore, he argued that public policies should not merely copy urban solutions but must adapt scales, timelines, and promotion models.
Itxaso described the value of the 814 identified actions as "an important figure," reflecting "the will to extend public housing policy beyond major urban centers." He also advocated for understanding Bizkaia, Araba, and Gipuzkoa as "a polycentric territory," asserting that small municipalities "are part of the future solution."
Finally, he highlighted that ensuring affordable housing is crucial for maintaining services, economic activity, and community life. The goal is not only to increase the number of available homes but also to "create the conditions for people to develop their life projects where they have established ties." He stressed that the right to housing should be guaranteed in any town.
