Across Aruba, abandoned and neglected buildings are becoming a more visible and troubling issue. Once vibrant restaurants, stores, and offices now stand empty, often falling into disrepair and creating eyesores in neighborhoods. The Social and Economic Council (Sociaal Economische Raad) or SER is sounding the alarm, urging the government to take immediate action using Aruba’s Leegstandverordening (Vacancy Ordinance) as a key tool to address the problem.
In a detailed report submitted to the government, SER outlines a range of strategies to breathe new life into these neglected properties. The Council emphasizes that revitalizing abandoned areas is essential—not only to improve the quality of life in local communities, but also to boost the economy, improve public safety, and help solve Aruba’s housing shortage.
Strategic incentives to bring properties back to life
To support this goal, SER proposes a variety of practical incentives aimed at encouraging property owners to renovate. These include government subsidies for restoration projects, especially those that meet sustainable development criteria. Additional financial support could be offered to convert empty commercial buildings into residential units, with a focus on affordable housing.
Young families are a key part of SER’s plan. The Council recommends offering subsidies or tax breaks to those willing to restore and live in abandoned homes. This would not only reduce housing pressure but also help bring neglected properties back into use.
Legal pressure on non-compliant property owners
SER also recommends legal measures to deal with owners who ignore or abandon their properties. It suggests that the government introduce fines or levies for those who leave buildings empty for long periods, especially when they have the means to maintain them. The goal is to push these owners to rent, sell, or renovate their properties.
In cases where public safety is at risk, SER proposes setting deadlines for action. If the owners fail to comply, the government should be able to step in, carry out the necessary work, and recover the costs through financial arrangements. These legal tools should be used only in extreme situations, when all voluntary efforts have failed.
Public-private partnerships and flexible use
Another key recommendation from SER is to foster stronger cooperation between the government and private sector developers—especially for social housing projects. Partnerships with institutions like the Department of Public Works (DOW) and financial entities such as the FCCA could help fund restoration through low-interest loans.
SER also encourages creative temporary uses for abandoned spaces, such as pop-up shops, community events, and art exhibitions. These activities can help prevent further deterioration and bring energy back into neglected neighborhoods.
A coordinated path toward sustainable urban renewal
The report stresses that real progress will require a coordinated effort. Effective solutions will depend on a mix of regulation, financial incentives, legal reforms, and investment. SER warns that without decisive action, Aruba risks falling into a cycle of urban decay that will be difficult to reverse.
For Aruba to achieve sustainable urban development, SER emphasizes the need to attract investors and explore adaptable strategies to make productive use of abandoned properties. Only through joint efforts and strong coordination, the Council argues, can Aruba create safer, more vibrant, and inclusive communities for all its residents.
