Beat that! Council unveils apartment block (with scenic views of river and countryside) for homeless

Council leaders and housing staff prepare to go walkabout in Swan House

                                                                  

A NEW council complex for people without homes and facing difficulties in supporting themselves to live independently has welcomed its first residents.

North East Lincolnshire Council has taken a long-term lease on Swan House - a 29-apartment building on  New Haven Terrace, Grimsby. 

Developed and refurbished privately by entrepreneur Adrian Smith, the building had originally been earmarked as luxury apartments overlooking the River Freshney and Millenium Country Park.

But when sales failed to materialise, North East Lincolnshire Council stepped in to ensure the property did not stand empty.

Says a spokesperson: "This is a welcome alternative to putting those who are eligible for statutory homelessness assistance in bed and breakfast or other alternative and expensive accommodation.

"Clients are offered recently-furnished smart one- and two-bed apartments within the  complex.

"Residents have fully fitted kitchens and appliances, such as washing machines, that enable them to live safely and do their own cooking and washing. 

"They are responsible for their own cleaning and managing their budgets to pay bills."

Support is also available from the council and its partners to help those who may have issues with money, benefits, or health and wellbeing. 

Round-the-clock housing management along with external and internal CCTV is expected to enhance security.

 Built to high specifications -  above and below, inside the premises