Further concerns have been raised about supported accommodation replacing student flats in Everton.
Earlier this month, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Jane Corbett expressed fears about the impact of a 57-bed accommodation block at the junction of Shaw Street and William Henry Street which will be repurposed into living spaces for individuals who have a support need such as a learning disability, a physical or sensory impairment, or mental ill health. Liverpool Council ’s planning committee gave the plans the go-ahead despite a report to members indicating the area is “struggling to cope with drug crime and violence”.
Now residents have spoken out against the plans, outlining a number of issues they have. One told the ECHO: “I do believe that every human being has the right to accommodation. William Henry/Shaw Street site is not the ideal site to house homeless people as it is in the middle of a residential area surrounded by vulnerable people who live in bungalows and family housing.
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“This will have a detrimental effect on the residents.” The facility will be managed by the Whitechapel Centre, a leading charity in the Liverpool region serving those in housing need. During the planning committee meeting earlier this month, Chris Morris, on behalf of applicant Onward Homes, said the building would support 52 people at any one time and provide "an opportunity to tackle homelessness and help people back onto their feet."
Opposing the plans, Cllr Corbett said "this is a really difficult one" for the committee given the council's position and those who experience homelessness. She said West Everton has a "proud history" of accepting hostels, but a lot of drug dealing and violence is occuring in the area and "is increasing".
Cllr Corbett, while acknowledging the need for such a service, questioned whether the development is appropriate for the area. The council was satisfied that “on balance” the three-year plans were appropriate.
Cllr Joe Hanson said to say no to those in need of this scheme would show they don't matter, "which isn't what we're about”. Speaking to the ECHO, residents told of their worries now the scheme has been given the go-ahead.
One said: “The Whitechapel Centre is increasing its services in a small residential area, which is recognised as one of the poorest in the UK, suffering from all the problems of social and economic deprivation. The cumulative effect of the Whitechapel's present users, and proposed residence is totally negative and overwhelming for the residents of the area.”
It was also said that most residents in Everton found out about the plans reading it in the ECHO. The plans were approved on a temporary basis for three years. Despite concerns about the layout of the buildings in the proposal, “the pressing need for short term supported housing” was considered to be sufficient grounds for allowing the development on a short-term basis.
Each occupant will be in situ for up to six months according to the application, with 52 beds across five floors in cluster flats for up to eight residents. Cllr Corbett told a meeting of West Everton Community Council last week that an appeal would start immediately.
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