CITIES 4 CO-HOUSING - Quarterly Network Journal No.1

The "CITIES 4 CO-HOUSING - Quarterly Network Journal No.1," published by URBACT and authored by Dr. Orna Rosenfeld, presents insights into the urgent challenge of providing decent and affordable housing across Europe. Co-funded by the European Union Interreg, this journal focuses on the Cities4Co-Housing Innovative Transfer Network and its initiatives aimed at fostering long-term housing affordability.

The Cities4Co-Housing Network is committed to exchanging practical solutions for affordable housing, drawing inspiration from the CALICO project in Brussels. The network emphasizes community support, inclusion, gender equality, and a sense of belonging, aiming to empower cities to create vibrant neighborhoods. Partners in this initiative include cities from Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Italy, and Montenegro.

The initial quarter of the Adapt Phase, spanning May to August 2025, marked significant advancements in transferring innovative housing practices. The partners engaged in dynamic activities focused on fostering inclusive housing solutions. Key themes included learning from the CALICO project's legal and financial modules and developing local testing actions. A transnational meeting in Vila Nova de Gaia facilitated capacity building and collaborative development of nearly 50 testing actions.

The establishment of the ITN Cities4Co-Housing Testing Actions Bank serves as a vital resource for partner cities. This living repository allows for the adaptation and development of testing actions suited to local contexts. Partners have made progress in drafting investment plans, including needs analysis and initial proposals aligned with CALICO principles. Sections on detailed investment cases and budgeting are currently underway.

The network has enhanced communication efforts through coordinated outreach, including websites and social media, to strengthen stakeholder engagement. Upcoming key milestones include a focus on governance and social modules, expert feedback on testing actions, and steps towards finalizing investment and continuity plans.

Individual city reports highlight their unique progress. For instance, Fuenlabrada has successfully engaged stakeholders in developing intergenerational frameworks and energy efficiency plans, while Naples has focused on community engagement and drafting regulations for solidarity condominiums. Nikšić has conducted feasibility studies for energy-efficient solutions, and Thessaloniki has secured a vacant public property for a pilot co-housing development.

Despite the progress, challenges remain in adapting legal frameworks and securing funding across different contexts. The network encourages cities to diversify funding strategies to build resilience and reduce reliance on European funds. The flexibility of the CALICO model is emphasized as essential for local adaptation.

The strategic priorities for the next quarter focus on advancing investment and continuity plans. Partners will engage in an online meeting to unlock funding opportunities and refine their proposals. The upcoming transnational meeting will further explore governance and social aspects, supporting cities in transforming their ideas into actionable, sustainable housing solutions. This journal serves as a comprehensive overview of the ongoing efforts within the Cities4Co-Housing Network, highlighting the commitment to creating affordable, community-led housing solutions across Europe.