Issue - meetings

The Cabinet authorised the purchase of the Crown Offices in Penrallt, Caernarfon, with terms and conditions to be determined by the Head of Housing and Property Department.

The report was submitted by Cllr Craig ab Iago

DECISION

The Cabinet authorised the purchase of the Crown Offices in Penrallt, Caernarfon, in accordance with terms and conditions to be determined by the Head of Housing and Property Department.

DISCUSSION

The report was submitted and it was noted that one of the main concerns of the Cabinet Member for Housing and Property was high figures of homelessness. It was emphasised that there was a significant increase since covid, as a result of the Westminster Government’s policies coupled with the economic situation. It was noted that there was a need to respond to these numbers and this application to change the use of an existing building. ⁠It was noted that the department had visited a similar location in York, where they had responded to the need. It was noted that the available space would be vital to deal with homelessness, and it was confirmed that funding for this scheme would not take away from other schemes seen across the county.

The Head of Department added that this was an application to buy offices and to re-purpose them for individuals and families who needed emergency accommodation. It was explained that 250 households were currently in unsuitable locations in Gwynedd and this scheme would accommodate 100-120 people. It was noted that the purchase was also an opportunity to have a supportive hub at the building.

It was reiterated that the building was in a very good condition with only minor defects. It was emphasised that the purchase would enable the department to implement one of the main fields in the housing action plan.

Observations arising from the discussion:

·         The plan was welcomed by emphasising the need to highlight that it would not happen overnight, and it would not impair on any other schemes. The element in terms of a hub to ensure support that would support the residents of Gwynedd was welcomed. The need to develop units for various people by looking at the needs of residents in addition was emphasised.

·         It was noted that supporting this scheme would also give revenue savings to the Council in addition as there would be no need to pay for temporary accommodation. It was also noted that there would be a social value to the scheme not only financial.

·         It was expressed that with an expenditure of £6m on homelessness, it was vital to move forward.

·         It was highlighted that temporary accommodation was unsuitable with many accommodations without a kitchen to cook and that could have a huge impact on people's diet, and it was asked what support was available. It was explained that the Hub was an opportunity to give multi-agency and cross-departmental support to ensure support for individuals and families' needs. It was expressed that it would be a central location for anyone to get housing support with the hope that it would detract from departments and agencies to ensure that people would maintain tenancies.