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The "CITIES 4 CO-HOUSING - Quarterly Network Journal No.1" is a publication produced by URBACT, an initiative co-funded by the European Union aimed at fostering sustainable urban development. The journal, authored by Dr. Orna Rosenfeld, serves as a comprehensive overview of the progress made by the Cities4Co-Housing Innovation Transfer Network, which focuses on addressing the urgent issue of affordable housing in urban areas across Europe.
Introduction to the Network
The Cities4Co-Housing network is dedicated to sharing practical solutions for long-term housing affordability, drawing inspiration from the CALICO project in Brussels. It aims to empower cities to cultivate vibrant communities, promote mutual support, and enhance neighborhood inclusion, gender equality, and a strong sense of belonging. The network involves key partners from Brussels, Fuenlabrada (Spain), Vila Nova de Gaia (Portugal), Thessaloniki (Greece), Naples (Italy), and Nikšić (Montenegro).
Executive Summary of Progress
From May to August 2025, the network made significant strides in adapting innovative housing practices inspired by the CALICO project. Partners engaged in various transnational and local activities to foster inclusive and affordable housing solutions. Key themes included learning from the complex legal and financial modules and translating these innovations into locally applicable testing actions. A pivotal transnational meeting in Vila Nova de Gaia allowed for capacity building and collaborative development of nearly 50 testing actions.
Focus on Investment Plans
Investment plans have advanced, with partners progressing in drafting foundational sections that address needs analysis, policy responses, and initial investment proposals aligned with CALICO principles. Local URBACT Local Groups (ULGs) actively engaged in refining these plans, promoting community involvement tailored to local challenges. Communication efforts were strengthened through coordinated outreach, enhancing stakeholder engagement.
Upcoming Milestones
Looking ahead, key milestones include a focus on governance and social modules, further expert feedback on testing actions, and steps towards finalizing draft investment and continuity plans by the year’s end. The network emphasizes collaboration, adaptation, and innovation to ensure sustainable, community-led housing solutions.
Key Themes Explored
The network's activities revolved around advancing the Adapt Phase, identifying partners' needs, and engaging in transnational meetings that prioritized in-depth exploration of legal and financial challenges. The collaborative workshops facilitated the co-development of tailored testing actions, which are crucial for local adaptation of CALICO principles.
Local Progress Highlights
Each partner city reported unique progress:
- Brussels established administrative processes for redistributing European funding and developed initial testing action plans.
- Fuenlabrada engaged stakeholders in creating intergenerational frameworks and energy efficiency initiatives aligned with CALICO methodologies.
- Naples focused on community engagement and innovative legal frameworks, verifying testing actions through stakeholder collaboration.
- Nikšić completed a feasibility study for solar panels, enhancing community engagement and energy efficiency efforts.
- Thessaloniki secured a vacant public property for cooperative housing, building a strong stakeholder network to support future initiatives.
Conclusion
The first quarterly journal encapsulates a vibrant phase of learning and practical advancement, highlighting the network's commitment to resilient, inclusive urban development across Europe. The collaborative efforts aim to make affordable housing a reality for all, fostering sustainable communities through innovative practices.