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In a decisive move toward regional governance, Morocco’s House of Representatives has unanimously approved two significant bills aimed at reforming urban planning and housing regulations. These legislative changes are designed to enhance local agency and streamline the construction process, thereby addressing some of the country’s pressing housing challenges.
Strengthening Regional Governance
During the second reading of the legislation, Secretary of State for Housing, Adib Ben Ibrahim, outlined the government’s initiative to establish regional agencies for urban planning and housing. This initiative aligns with King Mohammed VI’s vision to implement advanced regionalization by creating 12 regional agencies. It also reflects the recommendations from the national dialogue on urban planning and housing, addressing critiques from the Court of Auditors regarding the restructuring of urban agencies.
A New Institutional Framework
The proposed legislation introduces a new institutional model, establishing a regional agency in each region endowed with legal personality and financial independence. Local representation will ensure closer engagement with citizens, improving accessibility and responsiveness of services. The reforms aim not only to unify approaches to urban planning and housing but also to bolster investment and support rural development. Additionally, the government emphasizes modern governance through more effective boards of directors and clearly defined executive powers, alongside robust tracking and evaluation mechanisms.
Modernizing Legal Frameworks
The second bill, relating to amendments of Law No. 25.90 on real estate subdivisions and urban groups, seeks to modernize the legal frameworks governing urbanization. Secretary Ben Ibrahim noted that this bill responds to Morocco’s evolving landscape and the expectations of citizens, investors, and local authorities.
Key modifications to the bill include transitioning infrastructure—such as water, electricity, and sanitation networks—into the public domain of municipalities after provisional acceptance of construction works. A recent amendment also addresses technical challenges associated with property registration processes, stipulating conditions for registering communal property on real estate documents.
Implications for Housing and Urban Planning
These legislative initiatives carry significant implications for housing quality and urban development in Morocco. By fostering a more efficient and integrated framework, the government aims to combat inadequate housing and encapsulate the diverse needs of both urban and rural communities. The reforms represent a crucial step toward sustainable development in the sector, encouraging investment while ensuring that urban planning is responsive to the needs of the populace.
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Morocco’s House of Representatives has approved key bills to enhance urban planning and housing, fostering regional governance and sector modernization.
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Morocco takes a bold step in urban reform with new legislation aimed at revolutionizing housing and regional governance for a sustainable future.
