Mostaganem: Fighting Urbanistic Anarchy with New Building Height Limits

In Mostaganem, a significant shift in urban policy is underway as authorities move to curb what is being described as "urbanistic anarchy." The city is grappling with a growing problem of overly tall buildings that disrupt the urban fabric and negatively impact residents' daily lives. In response to widespread public discontent and concerns over invasive urbanization, the local administration has decided to impose strict new height restrictions on buildings within urban zones.

The core of the issue lies in the proliferation of high-rise constructions that have led to a severe loss of privacy, sunlight, and even views for neighboring properties. Residents in several neighborhoods, particularly in the city center and Hassi Maméche, have complained about balconies and windows directly overlooking adjacent homes, creating an unbearable sense of intrusion. To address these "deviations," the Wali of Mostaganem has decreed that the maximum height for buildings in urban areas will now be capped at R+5 (ground floor plus five stories).

This decisive measure is intended to restore a crucial balance between urban density and the quality of life for inhabitants. By limiting excessive building heights and mitigating the "vis-à-vis" effect, the authorities aim to protect residents' privacy and ensure better access to natural light. This new urban doctrine, announced on Press Day, signals a turning point in urban space management in Mostaganem, prioritizing the well-being of citizens over unchecked development. Developers seeking to build higher will now need to look beyond established urban perimeters, marking a clear message about the city's future development priorities.