Site Visit 11: Affordable housing exploration

Meeting point site visit 11: S4 (third floor)

Description:

A key development is Krakow’s housing offer is the Social Rental Agency (SAN) initiative, designed to increase affordable housing availability for low-income residents. This model bridges the gap between public and private rental markets by securing rental units at preferential rates while offering tenant support services.

In April 2024, Krakow secured 5.78 million PLN in EU funding through the European Funds for Social Development (FERS) programme under Cohesion policy to implement the SAN initiative. The project, launching in mid-2025, aims to acquire and renovate 50 apartments, furnish them, and mitigate rental risks. Tenants will receive tailored support, including social services, career counselling, and skills development, helping them achieve greater financial and housing stability. The Social Rental Agency in Kraków will be operated by a non-governmental organization selected through an open call for proposals. In addition to European funds, the organization will also receive a subsidy from the city budget for this purpose. It is worth noting that the main goal of the project is to strengthen the position of tenants (programme participants) in the labor market, as well as to support and develop soft skills that will help them gain greater independence in securing their housing needs.

The visit starts with an interactive session at the Cities Forum main venue on Kraków's different housing policies, including its most recent Social Rental Agency (SAN) initiative and the Krakow resident card. Afterwards, a bus transfer takes participants to Ruczaj district, one of the most dynamically growing areas of Krakow. The visit continues with a walking tour around Ruczaj, where participants will observe different housing estates (including municipal construction) from different periods – the 80s, 90s, 2000s and the present. The tour will focus on how the planning and architectural concepts of the buildings have evolved, as well as their surrounding amenities. The visit will also provide the opportunity to witness the impact of the resolution of the Krakow City Council, based on which fencing of multi-family buildings was banned.

How to prepare for the site visit: comfortable shoes, dress according to the weather: sunscreen and hat/umbrella and rain jacket.

More about the area:

Krakow’s housing policy, outlined by the City Council, focuses on supporting residents unable to secure housing independently due to financial hardship. The city operates a municipal housing stock of approximately 1,400 social rental apartments. Priority is given to low-income individuals without alternative housing options. While most agreements are for social rental, indefinite leases are available under specific conditions for example relocation needs or participation in the "Apartment for Renovation" programme.

Recognizing evolving housing challenges, Krakow continuously refines its approach. The city offers financial support, including rent subsidies, and complementary social programmes such as family assistance and vocational training.