PLANS to build a 23-bedroom facility for the homeless in Kings Furlong are being put forward for consideration. 

Proposals would see 180 Culver Road knocked down and replaced with a new accommodation block.

Homeless organisation Two Saints has put forward the plans, which are supported by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Hampshire County Council. They run supported housing services and support people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and currently manage the scheme at May Place in the town centre, which they say is no longer fit for purpose. 

It is proposed the new scheme, subject to obtaining planning permission, will be built on the land at 180 Culver Road, replacing the building that is owned by Hampshire County Council and which was previously used by the county council’s children’s services team. 

Residents in the neighbouring area have already been written to about the proposal and will be offered the opportunity to view the full plans and ask questions and input their views in the New Year.

A spokesman for the council said: "[If approved, the new centre] will play a key role in supporting the borough council’s goal to keep the number of people rough sleeping at zero, as set out in its housing and homelessness strategy." 

A full planning application is expected to be submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s planning department in January.

Steve Benson, chief executive for Two Saints said: “Through this new supported living accommodation, we’re building homes for a brighter future. It’s designed to give homeless and vulnerable people the very best chance to get their lives back on track."

He added: “The building has been carefully considered so we can work individually with people. As there are many reasons for homelessness, we need to work on many different solutions. The new building will allow us to create a supportive but learning environment, where residents can develop the skills they need to take the first steps back to independence.” 

The borough council’s cabinet member for homes and families Cllr Tristan Robinson said: “The number of people sleeping on our streets currently stands at zero which is the target we have set ourselves to achieve by 2024. This number has fallen for the past four years thanks to commitment and passion of the social inclusion partnership and innovative thinking and joint working. 

“May Place has served us well for many years however we cannot miss an opportunity for a brand new bespoke facility provided by Two Saints to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents in the borough.” 

Hampshire County Council executive member for commercial strategy, human resources and performance, Councillor Stephen Reid, said: “We are very pleased to be working alongside Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Two Saints towards a new vision for the land at 180 Culver Road. Following the necessary planning approvals, this site will become an important resource for some of the area’s most vulnerable people, helping to foster a more inclusive and cohesive Basingstoke community.” 

For more information on the plans and to keep up to date on opportunities to find out more and give your views visit www.twosaints.org.uk/culver-road/ or www.basingstoke.gov.uk/culver-road