TOWN Hall chiefs at Warrington are to be recommended to approve the creation of a multi-occupancy property, owned and managed by the borough council, to support homeless families.
The proposals, to be put to the council’s cabinet next Monday, involve the conversion of a purpose-built care home, in Lodge Lane, Warrington, which has been standing empty for two years.
It has a large, enclosed garden and car park and is situated away from the main road and is next door to Bewsey Lodge Primary School.
The families to be housed would be those who would otherwise be accommodated in hotels or bed-and-breakfast properties.
The school has expressed its support for the use of the building for homeless families and could be increased in size to accommodate children from the development.
It is intended that the property would provide a friendly welcoming environment with a new, friendly name.
Child-friendly accommodation with a playroom and facilities to help with school work, including Wi-Fi and desks would be a feature of the building. Community activities and learning opportunities for parents, including food network, cooking, budgeting, addictions, employment and training advice would also be provided.
Links with local community facilities including schools, nurseries and Early Help would be established.
Modern kitchen and bathroom facilities would be installed – although these would be shared.
If the council’s cabinet approves the scheme, it would be hoped the council could purchase the building in December, start work on-site in April next year and for the project to be completed by January 2025.
Details of the cost and funding of the project will be considered by the cabinet in private session.
