On February 5, the Supreme Court of Spain confirmed the validity of a 2018 urban planning regulation enacted by the Barcelona City Council, which requires that real estate developers allocate 30% of the apartments they build to affordable housing (VPO). This ruling clarifies that such obligations can be applied to established urban areas, not just new development plans, and affirms that developers are not entitled to compensation for these requirements. This decision sets a significant precedent for similar urban policies across Spain, reinforcing the legality of municipal regulations designed to promote social housing.

The regulation, introduced during the first term of former mayor Ada Colau, initially faced substantial opposition from real estate developers who argued that the requirement would hinder their profitability and lead to a decrease in overall housing supply. Despite these concerns, the Supreme Court's decision strengthens the position of local governments to enforce policies that prioritize affordable housing, particularly in cities grappling with housing crises.

As urban areas continue to struggle with rising housing costs and increasing demands for affordable living options, this ruling is likely to encourage other municipalities to adopt similar measures. By affirming the legality of such requirements, the Supreme Court potentially paves the way for more robust housing strategies aimed at addressing the urgent need for affordable housing across Spain, fostering a trend that could significantly shape the future of urban development in the country.