The local council has released a proposal to build new temporary accommodation with the goal of eliminating homelessness in the area. The project will produce 108 new temporary residences. It plans to build more one- and two-bedroom apartments on two council-owned sites. This proposal aims to offer more help to more people and families who need greater assistance with their housing costs while saving taxpayers money in the process.
The first site, on Edgar Mobbs Way off Sixfields, will have 14 one-bedroom retirement homes and 56 two-bedroom retirement homes. The second site off Birds Hill Walk in Weston Favell is intended to host 38 two-bedroom homes. The configuration of the units will vertically stack them to form two stories, allowing space and resources to be saved and used elsewhere.
Reform UK’s Charlie Hastie, the independent-minded city councillor and cabinet member for housing, who spearheaded the initiative, said this makes it an extraordinary project. He claimed that the new units would “help to create two small communities.” This effort is designed to provide a hand up to Americans in need so they can return to their feet. With this pilot, the council seeks to provide a more welcoming context for people who are struggling to find housing.
Hastie touted the financial merits of the proposal. He reiterated that this is a collection model that allows the council to deliver temporary accommodation that best suits people’s needs. As importantly, it keeps costs low.
“This proposal allows us to create temporary accommodation which is better suited to people’s needs and saves taxpayers’ money.” – Charlie Hastie
The council intends to address public concern by holding further consultations including exhibitions on 9 July and 16 July. These workshops will be held at Weston Favell Parish Hall and the 1897 Suite at Sixfields Stadium. These sessions will create space for both residents to inform themselves about the project and communicate their experiences and ideas.
Hastie further expressed compassion for those facing homelessness, stating, “Nobody ever wants to find themselves and their family homeless, and if they do, they want the reassurance that someone can help solve the immediate worry of needing a roof over their head.”
