An adult learning centre will be converted into 10 homes for rough sleepers and six more self-contained SoloHaus MMC homes will be installed on-site
The modular homes, courtesy of the Hill Group, and this conversion will mean that 60% of Basildon’s homeless will be able to live in safe homes.
Basildon Council’s Planning Committee granted planning permission on Wednesday 26 January for the former ITEC site in Burnt Mills Road, Basildon.
‘Safe, comfortable, sustainable homes’
This scheme is aimed at for Basildon residents who have recently found themselves experiencing periods of homelessness. These individuals will stay for a minimum of six months on an assured shorthold tenancy and a maximum of three years.
Rough Sleeping Accommodation Program (RSAP) from the DLUHC (Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities) has funded the programme. It will include office space for support workers, council staff and supporting agencies.
The six modular units called SoloHaus have been provided by The Hill Group. This generous donation forms part of their commitment to providing 200 homes over the next five years. They will provide safe, comfortable, sustainable homes for rough sleepers. The 10 one-bed homes inside the building will be managed by the housing association, Peabody South East, in partnership with Basildon Council.
‘Change peoples’ lives for the better’
Andy Hill, chief executive, The Hill Group, said:
“We are delighted to be working with Basildon Council on this scheme which once complete will change peoples’ lives for the better. It is excellent news that planning has now been approved, and we are looking forward to working with all of the teams to deliver SoloHaus in Essex.”
Chairman of the housing and estate renewal committee councillor Andrew Schrader added:
“The scheme aims to provide our residents affected by homelessness with a home. Receiving support, vocational training and the skills required to be able to move on and sustain their own tenancy, they will get the opportunity to turn their lives around.”
For more details on SoloHaus, please visit solohaus
