Mayor of Reykjavík stresses need for sustainable housing solutions over caravan park investments

The mayor of Reykjavík has expressed the challenges of meeting the housing needs of residents living in caravans and mobile homes. According to the mayor, the city must focus on making prudent investments in social housing solutions rather than prioritizing caravan parks.

The issue has gained attention due to the poor living conditions faced by members of Hjólabúar, a group advocating for caravan and mobile home residents. They recently relocated to Sævarhöfði in Reykjavík after being asked to leave the Laugardalur campsite by its operators.

The Mayor conveyed that while he understands the situation of the Hjólabúar, it is complicated to fulfill their requests for locations near basic services and public transport. He noted that a proposal had been made to establish a long-term site in Víðidalur, but it was ultimately deemed incompatible with existing equestrian activities.

Einar Thorsteinsson, the mayor, explained that the city cannot simply invest nearly 100 million ISK to create a caravan park, as this is typically not a sustainable housing solution. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing investments in affordable housing, such as municipal rental companies and nonprofit housing associations.

He suggested that a formal process is needed for residents to request discussions with the city about establishing permanent caravan sites. Einar also pointed out that there are alternative camping grounds in various locations, implying that those seeking this lifestyle might consider those options instead.

Moreover, he questioned the motives of some minority representatives advocating for the Hjólabúar in a political context while concurrently representing them, highlighting a potential conflict.