Eixample Voters Decide September: New Housing Rules Could Reshape Rents, Permits

Eixample district authorities have placed a referendum measure on the September ballot that would cap the annual number of commercial-to-residential conversions at 120 buildings. The rule would require applicants to submit detailed impact reports on neighbourhood services before permits are issued.

Current Permit Process and Local Effects

Under existing rules, conversion applications in Eixample are reviewed within 45 days by the district planning office. The proposed measure would extend that review to 90 days and add a requirement for public comment periods of 30 days each. Residents living near proposed sites would receive mailed notices listing the exact addresses under consideration.

Policy documents from the Eixample District Council state that the measure aims to manage pressure on local water and waste systems. For renters in buildings already approved for conversion, the change would not alter existing leases but could delay future projects that might have increased available units.

Budget and Service Implications

The district budget for 2026 allocates 2.8 million euros to housing permit administration. If passed, the referendum would redirect 400,000 euros from that line to cover additional staffing for the extended reviews. Local advocates note that this shift could reduce funds available for routine building inspections in the same year.

Voters will receive a printed guide from the district electoral office by 15 August that summarises the measure in Catalan and Spanish. The guide will include the exact wording of the proposed ordinance and a table showing projected permit volumes for 2027 through 2029 based on 2025 application data.

Ballots will be mailed to all registered residents aged 18 and older by 1 September. Results are scheduled for certification by the district electoral board on 10 September, after which the new rules would take effect on 1 January 2027 if approved.