It is hoped flats being built by a homelessness charity outside Nottingham will "help keep people off the streets". An old 1930s electricity substation was finally demolished after plans were lodged eight years ago, and work to build the flats has now begun.
Charity Framework submitted plans in October 2014 to convert the two semi-detached houses and an old 1930s electricity substation into 13 low-energy flats. The site in Rectory Road, just off Colwick Loop Road, had stood derelict in the years since and residents living nearby said it had become a "magnet for trouble".
Work commenced this year after councillors branded it a sham. Councillor Meredith Lawrence, who has represented Colwick since 2011, had said: "It has been going on for a long time now and on various occasions I've been in touch with Framework.
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"The fact it has taken so long is a bit inexcusable."
Despite initial fears over the location, residents have generally welcomed the plans. The flats would house those in need of accommodation as they recover from alcohol and drug addiction.
Shagufta Nasir, who has lived in nearby Vale Road for 10 years, said: "It is fine. I think it is a good idea and a good project for those who are homeless.
"I think it is the right place for the flats, why not? It is a good area. I would not say it is very posh but it is a nice area."
Similarly Matt Archer, who runs the Archers of Colwick MOT garage in Vale Road, added: "It is a good thing to be doing.
"It will keep people off the streets."
Framework submitted a bid under the Government's Everyone In scheme, which sought to house rough sleepers throughout the coronavirus pandemic, and had been waiting for the funds to come in before work started.
Andrew Redfern, the chief executive of the charity, says: "Work on the contract began in February. We hope to achieve completion by the end of the current calendar year, for occupation early in 2023.
"We are building eight high-quality self-contained flats to accompany the two houses that already exist on the site. These will be allocated to young homeless people (including care leavers) with continuing support needs. This will take the form of visiting support.
"The flats will replace existing shared accommodation that is unsuitable for the needs of these people."
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