1 Include affordable housing in the planning process

One of the most important steps to ensure the provision of affordable housing in urban regeneration projects is to include it in the planning process from the start. This means engaging with the existing and potential residents, identifying their housing needs and preferences, and setting clear and realistic goals and targets for affordable housing delivery. It also means allocating sufficient land, resources, and incentives for affordable housing development, and ensuring that the regulatory and institutional frameworks support it.

2 Promote mixed-income and mixed-use development

Another way to address the affordable housing shortage in urban regeneration projects is to promote mixed-income and mixed-use development. This means creating diverse and integrated neighborhoods that offer a range of housing options and tenures for different income groups, as well as access to amenities, services, and opportunities. Mixed-income and mixed-use development can enhance the social cohesion, livability, and sustainability of urban areas, and prevent the segregation and stigmatization of low-income residents.

3 Implement inclusionary zoning and housing policies

A third approach to address the affordable housing shortage in urban regeneration projects is to implement inclusionary zoning and housing policies. These are policies that require or encourage developers to include a certain percentage or number of affordable housing units in their projects, or to contribute to a fund or a land bank for affordable housing provision. Inclusionary zoning and housing policies can leverage the private sector's involvement and expertise in urban regeneration, and ensure that the benefits of development are shared more equitably.

4 Support community-led and alternative housing models

A fourth option to address the affordable housing shortage in urban regeneration projects is to support community-led and alternative housing models. These are housing models that are initiated, owned, or managed by the residents themselves, or by non-profit or cooperative organizations. They can include social housing, co-housing, co-operative housing, community land trusts, and self-help housing. These models can empower the residents to have more control and participation in their housing decisions, and provide more affordable, flexible, and inclusive housing solutions.

5 Monitor and evaluate the impacts of urban regeneration

A fifth and final suggestion to address the affordable housing shortage in urban regeneration projects is to monitor and evaluate the impacts of urban regeneration on the housing market and the residents. This means collecting and analyzing data on the supply and demand of affordable housing, the affordability and quality of housing, and the satisfaction and well-being of the residents. It also means adjusting and improving the policies and practices of urban regeneration based on the evidence and feedback, and ensuring accountability and transparency in the process.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?