Plans to sell two buildings owned by Brussels’ regional housing company have triggered a legal dispute, with housing organisations asking a court to stop the sales. The properties, known as the Ariane building in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and the Palais building in Schaerbeek, were purchased in 2020 with the intention of creating social housing. Four associations have now brought an urgent case against the Brussels Regional Housing Company, arguing that the buildings should not be sold without stronger guarantees that their future use will serve public housing needs.
The dispute has attracted political attention from Ecolo Brussels, which has called on the regional government to suspend the sale process. The party argues that public buildings acquired for social housing should not simply be transferred to the highest bidder without conditions protecting affordable accommodation. It has proposed measures such as social-housing requirements, price limits and criteria that would give priority to housing associations and cooperatives. The debate comes as thousands of households remain on waiting lists for social housing in the Brussels region.
The housing company has defended its plans by pointing to financial pressure and the need to reduce its debt to the regional government. The two properties could generate approximately 53 million euros through a sale, while the regional authorities are seeking to address a significant budget deficit. However, opponents argue that selling public assets may provide short-term financial relief while making the housing shortage more difficult to solve in the long term.
The legal hearing took place as housing campaigners organised a symbolic action outside the Palace of Justice. The associations say they are not against every property sale, but want public authorities to respect the original social purpose of buildings purchased with public resources. The housing company has reportedly agreed not to accept offers before the court rules on the urgent request. A decision is expected in December, while a further hearing on the main case is scheduled for February. The outcome could influence how Brussels manages public property and balances financial pressures against its responsibility to provide affordable housing.
