New housing for people who have faced a crisis to be built on former church site in Wigan
People who have experienced a crisis in their lives – such as domestic abuse or homelessness – could be housed in new ‘move on accommodation’ in an area of Wigan.
Alongside 10 ‘affordable’ houses for rent, 12 ‘supported living’ apartments will be built on the site of the recently demolished St Peter’s Church on Bryn Road, Bryn.
The one-bedroom flats will not be emergency sheltered accommodation, but offer housing to individuals who need support to reach ‘full independence’.
Tenants are expected to live in these apartments for approximately 12 months during which time they will have access to 24-7 support from dedicated staff.
There will also be a mix of two and three bedroom properties available for rent.
The 22 homes will be located in four detached two-storey blocks with the ‘general need’ accommodation forming two blocks of mews style houses.
Housing association Adactus, part of Jigsaw Homes North, is behind the plans.
Andrew Titterton, director of architectural practice Studio KMA, told Wigan’s planning committee on Tuesday (April 20) that the housing group has an ‘excellent’ track record and experience in creating ‘sustainable communities’.
He said: “The life changes to the people they’ve worked with are immeasurable with many reconnecting with family members, starting training, going to university, going into work, or gaining the confidence to build happy fulfilled lives.
“We’re extremely confident that through their quality service delivery, Jigsaw Homes will make this a service that the community of Bryn will value and will be very proud of.”
However, there were 15 objections to the scheme, with some saying this type of accommodation will attract anti-social behaviour and crime in the area.
Golborne and Lowton West councillor Gena Merrett said these objections were ‘not well-founded’ as the accommodation will not necessarily be for people who ahve committed crimes or have drug or alcohol-related problems.
Council officer Mike Jones told the planning committee that there is ‘no evidence’ that this type of development will lead to a rise in crime locally.
He explained how the ‘unique’ concept to tackle homelessness will work.
He said: “Potential residents will have already been working adult social care and they will be nominated for this type of accommodation which they are envisaged to develop life skills for a period of up to 12 months potentially. At that point then they would probably be looking to be moved on to more permanent affordable rented accommodation when that is available.”
The committee voted unanimously in favour of the planning application.