West Suffolk Council has approved a significant investment of £612,000 aimed at tackling the district’s housing and homelessness challenges.
The funding will support initiatives outlined in a new housing, homelessness reduction, and rough sleeping strategy spearheaded by Councillor Richard O’Driscoll, Labour portfolio holder for housing.
The strategy includes conducting feasibility studies to repurpose empty homes, implementing a two-year homelessness prevention scheme, and exploring avenues to expand the local housing supply.
The decision comes as the council faces mounting pressure, with over 2,500 people on its housing register, 1,000 of whom are classified as having high or very high need.
Council leader Beccy Hopfeperger, a Conservative, highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting its potential impact on residents’ lives.
She stressed the need for diligent implementation to ensure the strategy achieves meaningful results.
However, Independent Councillor Tony Brown raised concerns about the management of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). While acknowledging that not all HMOs are problematic, he pointed to poorly run properties that negatively affect vulnerable neighbours.
To address private sector housing issues, the council had already allocated £177,000 earlier this year. While Councillor O’Driscoll acknowledged this funding, he admitted that additional resources might be required in the future.
The proposals received overwhelming support, with 44 councillors voting in favour and five abstaining. No opposition votes were recorded, underscoring the council’s commitment to tackling the pressing housing crisis.
