Plans for eight temporary accommodation pods for homeless people have been approved despite concerns they are in the wrong place next to a nursery. The tiny single-bed units, each with a living and kitchen area and shower, will be installed at Derby Street car park in St George after Bristol City Council development control committee granted permission.
A total of 22 of the 45 parking spaces will be lost as the site is reconfigured to make room for the metal-clad “Solohaus” modular buildings, although planning officers assessed there were enough other vehicle bays nearby. The proposals received 37 objections, with many neighbours concerned about the proximity to St George Preschool and Redfield Lodge care home because of existing antisocial behaviour at the car park.
Officers, who recommended giving the go-ahead, told the meeting that the development would actually improve the area by supplying “natural surveillance” and lighting from the temporary homes, as well as new green space. They said other issues raised by residents, including traffic congestion and adding more homes to an area with high housing density, were deemed to be acceptable.
