From Principles to Practice DIGITAL

Key outcomes GOVERNANCE Vienna’s gentle urban renewal programme encourages collaborative governance by en- suring that tenants are actively involved in the renewal process. The programme encourages participation through public consultations, local workshops and direct involvement in the decision-making pro - cess. This level of community engagement ensures that the needs and preferences of current residents are considered, making the pro- gramme more inclusive and responsive. Moreover, the Vienna Hous- ing Fund plays a central role in managing funding, guiding policy de- cisions, and coordinating stakeholders from public and private sectors to achieve long-term neighbourhood sustainability.28 FUNCTIONALITY The approach focuses on small-scale urban interventions rather than large- scale demolitions, which helps avoid disruption and preserves the neighbourhood’s social fabric. The programme prioritizes upgrading building infrastructure, such as energy-efficient heating systems and modernized plumbing, without significant architectural alterations. These rehabilitations improve living conditions while maintaining the building’s historical integrity. To receive subsidies, private owners must comply with specific regulations aimed at preserving affordabil- ity and preventing tenant displacement. This includes agreements on rent controls and tenant protections post-renovation, ensuring that the social objectives of the programme are met. Beyond the buildings, the public realm is upgraded with better lighting, pedestrian-friendly design and traffic calming measures, improving walkability and safety. ECONOMY In exchange for subsidies, private landlords agree to maintain affordable rents and tenant protections. This means they may forgo higher market rents in return for public financial assistance. The programme not only preserves affordable housing but also stimulates the local economy by creat - ing jobs in sustainable construction, renovation and local services. It ensures that neighbourhood renewal benefits the community rather than displacing it, thus preventing the kind of market-driven rent increases seen in other urban renewal projects. The investment in building improvements also results in better energy efficiency, which lowers long-term costs for tenants and the city.29 DIVERSITY By keeping tenants in place during renovations and preserving the existing community, the pro - gramme creates long-lasting social value. Its emphasis on community participation encourages community resilience and cohesion, as resi - dents have a say in how their neighbourhoods are transformed, ensuring that renovations reflect their needs and values. This inclusive approach prevents social fragmentation and enables the continued flourishing of diverse communities in central urban areas.30 SENSE OF PLACE By preserving the existing architecture while adapting buildings to modern needs, the programme funds the revitalization of inner courtyards, transforming them into communal gardens, playgrounds and other recreational spaces. By maintaining the authenticity and continuity of neighbourhoods, the programme cultivates a strong local identity and cultural heritage. 34 35Stakeholders Stakeholders Gebietsbetreuungen StadterneuerungOngoing management ▪The Vienna Housing Fund ▪Local community leaders and tenant organizations Construction Various local construction companies and renovation firms with public entities Community engagement Urban Renewal Offices hubs Tenant advocacy Housing Association Funding ▪The City of Vienna ▪The European Union (via grants) Urban development strategy Vienna City Planning DepartmentProgramme managment The City of Vienna