Posted on 21st Feb
Newark and Sherwood District Council’s new temporary accommodation for the homeless, Alexander Lodge, is set to welcome residents as early as March — four weeks ahead of schedule.
The council said it was committed to providing homelessness assistance, and tenancy support services, and so has invested £4.1m in constructing Alexander Lodge.
The building provides self-contained accommodation that is flexible to meet the bedroom needs of residents, with interlocking rooms that can be furnished and supplied with secure storage, providing a safe, warm, and comfortable space for residents.
Each property has its own private outdoor space and a play area for children. A caretaker will be on site.
The tenancy support team will work with residents to identify individual support needs, such as education, health, and employment, in anticipation of accessing more permanent accommodation.
From the autumn, Alexander Lodge will offer a wider support package to meet key skills such as budgeting, health and well-being, home safety, and practical skills in partnership with local colleges.
Coun Lee Brazier, portfolio holder for housing at the council, said: “We are delighted with the upcoming opening of Alexander Lodge, which is not only a significant investment in providing temporary accommodation to residents of Newark, but also a step forward in the council’s commitment to using green energy to support the environment.
“This facility is modern and will enable the council to deliver a strong homelessness support service, with a focus on helping residents achieve longer-term tenancy success.”
The council has prioritised energy efficiency, with PV solar panels installed on the site. Green energy, along with the significant levels of insulation, will mean that Alexander Lodge will be energy efficient, warm, and cheaper to heat, helping to keep service charges to a minimum with any extra energy being sold back to the National Grid.
Alexander Lodge gives the council further options for accommodating rough sleepers when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is activated.
Coun Brazier added:“I am pleased that the council has partnered with Lincoln and Newark College, Academy Transformation Trust Further Education, and Inspire to deliver services to help residents move on from temporary accommodation.”
