A former Erith care home is re-opening - as a house for the homeless.
Bexley Council's planning committee approved the decision to convert Homeleigh last week (September 10), in reaction to the borough's rising numbers of homeless families.
When it re-opens, the Homeleigh building - which is currently empty - will provide temporary accommodation for up to 15 families and 10 individuals.
The new home will help the council keep people off the streets, at a reduced cost to taxpayer funds
This should save taxpayer money, as it will stop the need for the council to rent costly temporary accommodation in the private sector.
The council currently provides over 700 temporary accommodation homes and rooms, to those who qualify for help from the council.
Homeleigh was previously used as a residential nursing home, but was deemed to be not suitable for use, after changes to legal requirements for care homes housing the elderly and people with dementia.
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The council is in the process of reviewing the long-term use of the building.
Homeleigh will only be used for housing accommodation as a temporary measure.
What's your opinion? Is this a good use of the building? Have your say at josie.griffiths@london.newsquest.co.uk
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