Five new properties, which will offer dedicated support to rough sleepers, are to be built in Breckland thanks to a new partnership between Breckland Council and Broadland Housing.

The new homes, which will be opened later this year in Thetford, will see former rough sleepers from across the district provided with support to help their transition into longer-term accommodation, as well as offering help to access education, employment opportunities and healthcare. 

Four of the two-story, one-bedroom terrace homes, will be developed alongside an adjoining bungalow, with a shared garden space. The homes are being developed in the grounds of Elm House, formerly called Elm Road Community Centre, which itself is in the process of being converted into emergency accommodation units by Breckland Council. Car parking spaces will be part of the new development, ensuring easy access for residents and support staff. 

The £926,000 project, funded by Broadland Housing and Breckland Council, also received a successful grant for £245,000 from Homes England to help fund and deliver this project in 2022. The project is part of Breckland Council’s new corporate plan and Inspiring Communities programme, aimed at enhancing the lives of Breckland residents through strategic partnerships and early intervention services. 

Breckland Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Paul Claussen, and Cllr Alison Webb, Executive Member for Housing, Health & Communities, commented: “Breckland Council is committed to tackling the causes of homelessness and supporting rough sleepers. These new units will assist some of the most vulnerable members of our community, enabling them to stay safe, access support and develop the skills needed to live independently.”

Andrew Savage, Executive Development Director for Broadland Housing, said: “We are once again delighted to be working with Breckland Council on this important project. More homes are needed for the rough sleepers of Breckland Council and Broadland welcomes the opportunity to contribute to providing much needed homes for the homeless people of Norfolk”