There was a significant surge in the number of building permits issued in June 2024, as issuing authorities worked to clear the backlog of delayed applications before the responsibility for permits transitioned from municipalities and district administrations to the newly established Provincial Self-Government Organizations.

According to the Statistical Service, 1,528 building permits were issued by municipal and district authorities in June 2024, compared to 610 during the same month in 2023, representing a 150% year-on-year increase.

The total value of these permits reached €781.6 million, covering a total area of 594,900 square meters. These permits are expected to lead to the construction of 2,772 residential units.

The Statistical Service explained that the sharp rise in building permits issued in June 2024 was largely due to the efforts made by the issuing authorities to process the large number of applications ahead of the transfer of building permit responsibilities, effective from July 1, 2024, from municipalities and district administrations to the new Provincial Self-Government Organizations.

From January to June 2024, a total of 4,782 building permits were issued, compared to 3,608 during the same period in the previous year, marking a 32.5% increase.

The total value of these permits rose by 44.4%, exceeding €2 billion, while the total area covered increased by 46.5%. The number of residential units saw a 44.4% increase.