Andorra to Boost One-Bedroom Public Housing Amid Senior Demand Surge

Andorra's government intends to expand public housing with a greater share of one-bedroom flats to better match applicant profiles, particularly amid rising requests from seniors.

Housing Minister Conxita Marsol explained that demand has shifted following regulatory updates that eased access for older residents by removing minimum income thresholds. Most registrants now seek one-bedroom units, while two-bedroom flats face allocation challenges and three-bedroom options see limited interest. "The majority of people are waiting for one-bedroom homes, there's not much demand for two-bedroom units right now, and very few request three-bedroom ones," she told the Andorran News Agency.

She cited Borda Nova I in Andorra la Vella, where 12 two-bedroom flats remain unassigned because they do not suit the family profiles of available applicants. The executive plans to reopen applications for these units, allowing eligible registrants whose needs align with the properties to reapply.

Marsol stressed that ongoing data on population needs will guide future developments. The government also remains committed to distributing public housing across all parishes, even if central areas prove more appealing. Parishes like Canillo and Ordino offer viable options nearby, she said, aided by free public transport that supports commuting. This stance counters concerns raised by Canillo's first consul, Jordi Alcobé, about filling units in outlying zones.

The approach builds on recent measures, including rental subsidies announced by Marsol earlier in the week and due to open for applications in November. The Housing Syndicate has praised the aid as immediate support for families but urged broader steps, such as rent controls, more affordable stock, and relaxing the 15-year residency rule for long-term workers.