An empty hotel and vacant hospital should be used to house people facing homelessness, a councillor has said.
It comes amid calls for “drastic action” to prevent an almost £9 million financial black hole over the next four years.
Matthew Taylor, a Conservative councillor for Stalham, questioned if North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) is doing everything it can to address the escalating expenses of housing people in temporary accommodation.
It comes as the Liberal Democrat-controlled authority spends £1.3 million each year to house homeless people in B&Bs and hotels, among other inflationary strains on its services.
Mr. Taylor stated at a council meeting this week that the council’s role is crucial as it faces a near-£9 million black hole over the next four years due to temporary housing pressures.We need to think large and take drastic measures to find a solution as quickly as feasible.”
NNDC now has 62 households in temporary lodging, including 70 children.
Mr Taylor inquired whether the authority had explored utilizing a vacant hotel in Stalham and the Milestones hospital in adjacent Catfield to house those in need of shelter after they were recently granted permission to be converted into dwellings.
Wendy Fredericks, cabinet member for housing and people’s services, stated that local councils have not been “properly funded for the last 14 years” and that the government is doing “everything it possibly can” to remedy the problem.
This includes buying 25 properties to house people.
She stated that NNDC looked into using the Stalham hotel, but it was too expensive to bring it up to par, whereas purchasing more modern properties was more cost-effective.
However, she acknowledged that it would be prudent to investigate whether the vacant Catfield mental health institution could be converted into living space.
She said that the council is working “incredibly well” to handle the issue, and that other authorities in the country are consulting with them.
Ms Fredericks advised those at danger of homelessness to seek assistance before it is too late.
She said, “If you are worried, please contact us as soon as possible.
“In certain circumstances, we can prevent homelessness. Our teams are prepared and waiting to assist.”
What to do if you’re at risk of being homeless.
There are several services that people can contact if they are at risk of being homeless and require assistance with housing.
If you live in the North Norfolk district, please email housing@north-norfolk.gov.uk or call 01263 513 811.
For more information on the services available, please visit north-norfolk.gov.uk/tasks/housing-services/advice-about-homelessness.
If you live in another district, similar services are available through your local council’s website.
Other organisations and charities can provide aid to persons in need.
There are various local services, including the Purfleet Trust in King’s Lynn, Pathways in Norwich, and Future Projects.
National charity, such as Shelter, Crisis, and Citizens information, can provide information and help.
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