A new development in Weymouth is offering a fresh start for former rough sleepers through an array of colorful modular homes. Situated on the outskirts of Weymouth, the five vibrant, self-contained flats mark a significant step forward in Dorset Council’s efforts to provide stable housing support for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
Part of the council’s Phase 2 ‘moving-on’ scheme, these multi-colored units offer residents the independence to cook, manage their living expenses, and maintain their own space. The introduction of these larger flats, each measuring 30 square meters, equipped with solar panels, improved insulation, air source heat pumps, LED lighting, and high-efficiency windows, aligns with the council’s commitment to energy efficiency standards.
According to Cllr Gill Taylor, the project represents a pivotal moment in changing lives and creating opportunities for individuals who have faced the challenges of homelessness. The aim is not only to provide shelter but to empower individuals in building a more promising future. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to increase the availability of housing and address homelessness in Dorset.
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Funded through the government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP), the project is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Dorset Council, and The Bus Shelter Project. Emily McCarron, chief executive and co-founder of The Bus Shelter Project, emphasized the importance of providing safe and stable homes, further underlining the significance of these new flats in the journey towards rebuilding lives and fostering hope.
The modular nature of the flats allows for a projected lifespan of 30 years and the potential for relocation to alternate sites. Constructed in a mere five weeks by Newspace using modern methods, the initiative has garnered praise for not only providing shelter but also for its positive environmental impact.
Andy Cullimore, managing director of Newspace, expressed pride in the partnership and reaffirmed the commitment to creating spaces that enhance the well-being of residents and contribute to positive environmental change.