Housing double binds: Social sustainability in municipal policy plans

This paper aims to critically evaluate the integration and prioritization of ‘social sustainability’ within Norwegian municipal housing policy plans, drawing upon an analysis of 126 such plans. A strong focus on social sustainability is evident in the plans, mediated through state interventions, such as subsidized loans, housing support, and price regulation. Concurrently, there is a widespread endorsement of market-based approaches to housing provision and home ownership. The analysis reveals a double bind between market mechanisms and welfare state interventions in housing policy planning, and a shift towards increased political control in municipal housing matters, particularly to bolster social sustainability amidst challenging economic conditions.