Hillingdon Council creates vital new accommodation
Monday 16 October 2023: Two of Hillingdon Council's buildings previously used for sheltered accommodation will be changed to create vital housing for the homeless, subject to planning approval.
The decision follows a recent review of the council's housing, which revealed a surplus of homes dedicated to older people. The review showed 16 per cent of the council's housing stock was allocated to those over 55.
By decommissioning the two buildings and relocating residents to suitable alternative accommodation in the borough, subject to planning approvals the two sites could be made available for alternative housing needs for priority groups. The Gouldings comprises 42 self-contained one-bedroom flats and Yiewsley Court has 25.
The council consulted with all residents affected by the proposals earlier this year, before seeking Cabinet approval.
Increasing the council's provision of homes set aside specifically for homeless households whom the council owes a statutory duty to house will help address both supply and cost pressures associated with temporary accommodation.
Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents' Services, said: "We're committed to creating a borough with happy, healthy households where residents can thrive.
"So, initiatives like this will helps us ensure that everyone who needs a home has the opportunity to find a good one in our borough, particularly those groups or individuals with more acute needs.
"This is easier said than done in a dense, urban area like west London, so in this instance, we've looked at how we can use our provision of sheltered accommodation in a more efficient manner, rather than having buildings under capacity at a time of housing crisis.
"In return, this has freed-up buildings which will provide vital homes for other priority groups."
For residents who will have to relocate, the council will be providing them with one-to-one support from a council officer throughout the process as well as financial compensation to cover the costs and disruption.