Thanet Council to review £39 million initiative for homeless housing

Councillors are scheduled to review proposals this week concerning an investment of almost £39 million aimed at relocating homeless individuals back to Thanet. At present, a total of 303 households reside in temporary housing; 146 of these are within Thanet, while an additional 157 are situated outside the district, with some located in areas as distant as Medway. The proposed initiative involves either purchasing or constructing 170 residences, comprising a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units, at an estimated expenditure of £38,762,000. Thanet District Council stated that these new properties would be designated specifically for “households that are currently living out of the area in temporary accommodation”. The council indicated that “The cost of temporary accommodation has steadily increased in recent years, prompted by the shortage of affordable housing and the rising number of households finding themselves homeless”. Furthermore, it was noted that the plans are projected to generate “an immediate initial annual saving of £114,000 and more than £1,000,000 per year saved by year 10”. Helen Whitehead, who serves as the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, commented: “The social, emotional, and financial strain for Thanet residents of being placed out of area is enormous. “It is damaging for families and individuals, places strain on education placements and the management of health conditions.” The cabinet is scheduled to review these proposals during a meeting on Thursday.