Temporary flats helping to house the homeless

A newly redeveloped supported housing scheme to help people at risk of homelessness has opened in Shropshire.

The first residents have now begun moving into Coton Hill House on Berwick Road in Shrewsbury, which was originally an elderly residential home.

Shropshire Council said it has now been transformed into 25 self-contained one-bedroom flats for single people in need.

The scheme will provide 24/7 housing support alongside a dedicated concierge service, which the council said ensured residents receive comprehensive assistance tailored to their needs.

The local authority said it would help people build the necessary skills to find long-term housing, with housing support staff on site to address any issues that have led people to become homeless.

Shropshire Council also said it had worked "very closely" with the community in regards to integration and would continue to do so.

The opening of Coton Hill House follows the launch of other similar schemes this year, including The Tannery and 70 Castle Foregate in Shrewsbury and Parish Rooms in Bridgnorth.

A spokesperson said: "The council has taken a number of actions to reduce the use of expensive hotel accommodation for homeless people.

"This scheme will mean a further 25 residents who will no longer be housed in hotel accommodation. This accommodation is very expensive and does not allow residents to have their own cooking facilities and there is no onsite support."

Jan Ashdown, who recently moved into Coton Hill House, said she was "so very grateful for the temporary accommodation I've been provided with".

"All the staff are so friendly and have been very helpful and accommodating."

The refurbishment of Coton Hill House was partly paid for by the Government's Single Homeless Accommodation Project.

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