A much-needed hostel for homeless families in Brent has been given the go-ahead by Brent Council.
The temporary hostel will use a vacant building in Brondesbury Park to primarily house homeless families.
It was approved by the council's planning committee on Thursday (July 2). All members voted in support of the application for the change of use of John Barker Court, adding conditions about signage to help guide future residents.
Councillor Margaret McLennan, lead member for housing and development, said: “I am very pleased that the committee approved this application.
“It is important because the number of people in need of emergency accommodation has increased, mostly due to the impact of welfare reform and ever rising rents.”
The building will be used to accommodate single mothers with one child, who are currently being housed in expensive bed and breakfast accommodation.
“This decision means that we can improve the living standards for these families as well as save the council £75,000 over a period of five months.
“We are very thankful to Network Housing Group for their contribution in making the building available to use for this purpose.”
A Brent council spokesperson said: “There was widespread local consultation on this proposal.
"However, it has come to light that part of Alan Preece Court (numbers 1 -19) were not consulted when the remainder (numbers 20 -37) and other residents were on 5th May.
"While some residents of 1-19 did write to object, they will all now be formally consulted to ensure that the Planning Committee can consider all representations before making a decision on this proposal."
