The Ajuntament de Reus has filed formal objections to the Generalitat’s plan to remove the city from the protected residential rental market zone, Mayor Sandra Guaita confirmed in statements reported by Canal Reus.
Reus is among two municipalities in Tarragona province, alongside Tortosa, set to lose its designation as a 'tense rental market' area from March 2027, according to a government decision published on 29 July 2026 by Diari Més, citing Catalan housing policy updates.
Under the current rules, municipalities classified as 'áreas tensas' benefit from rent caps and additional protections to improve housing affordability. The Generalitat argues the change reflects improved housing conditions due to measures like rent ceilings and expanded public housing.
“We are aware that many people and families still struggle to access affordable housing,” said Mayor Sandra Guaita, acknowledging the positive indicators behind the decision but stressing ongoing local challenges.
The mayor warned that losing the status means Reus will no longer be able to apply rent price controls, undermining a key tool for housing access. The full list of 302 municipalities in the 2024 declaration, including Reus’ previous inclusion, is published on habitatge.gencat.cat.
Local Reaction and Next Steps
The Housing Union of Reus responded with “surprise, confusion and indignation”, questioning the data used by authorities. “In which city are they living that they say housing access has improved? Prices have only gone up,” the union stated.
The city council argues Reus still requires protective mechanisms, as rising rents and limited availability continue to affect residents. Officials insist they will intensify efforts to expand the public housing stock and explore all available tools.
A final decision rests with the Generalitat. The Department of Justice and Democratic Quality, led by Minister Ramon Espadaler, is expected to review the municipality’s objections before confirming the March 2027 update.
Primary sources: govern.cat, habitatge.gencat.cat. Reported by canalreus.cat, diarimes.com, reusdigital.cat, elperiodico.com, lavanguardia.com, Cambra de la propietat urbana de Reus.
