Controversial 'Bau-Turbo' Reform Faces Backlash Amid Housing Crisis

Critics argue the proposed legislation undermines environmental and tenant protections without ensuring affordable housing.

The 'Bau-Turbo' is a proposed amendment to the German building code aimed at accelerating housing construction in high-demand areas.
Environmental and social organizations, including the Deutsche Umwelthilfe and the Mieterbund, oppose the reform, citing risks to environmental standards and tenant rights.
The legislation, which includes the contentious Paragraph 246e, was introduced with minimal public consultation, raising concerns about its transparency and democratic process.
Critics argue the reform lacks provisions for affordable housing and could lead to increased rents and displacement in already strained housing markets.
The Green Party has conditioned its support on enhanced tenant protections, emphasizing the urgent need for affordable housing solutions in Germany.