Residents in Truro are worried about plans for homeless pods near their homes, fearing it could affect their community and property values.
Truro: Residents near a housing estate are worried about plans for homeless pods. These pods would be for young people aged 18 to 25 who are at risk of homelessness.
Cornwall Council wants to place ten modular units close to Tregurra Park and Waitrose. Many of these young people would be transitioning from care services.
At a recent planning meeting, locals expressed concerns about the location. The proposed site is near the entrance of Tregurra Park and Ride on the A39.
About 20 residents attended the meeting, with many sharing their worries online. The estate has 101 homes built through a partnership with Cornwall Council and other developers.
While similar units exist in Cornwall, this would be the first for young people. There’s a recognized need for such housing in the area.
Nicky Mannell, a housing officer, explained that the plan aligns with local housing needs. They aim to enhance the site with more plants and hedgerows.
Currently, 118 young people in the area need housing support. The council believes this project could help meet that need.
There won’t be parking at the site, but the nearby park and ride is available for transport. Some officials noted that public transport options are nearby.
Truro’s mayor raised concerns about parking during evenings and weekends when the park and ride is closed.
Former mayor Steve Webb asked about management and support for residents. Mannell assured that support would be available on-site for training and assistance.
Residents would need to work with a support provider and would be treated like regular tenants. Cornwall Housing will manage the properties.
Two other potential sites were considered but deemed unsuitable. Police also expressed concerns about managing support for residents.
Travis Mason, a resident, voiced worries about the lack of facilities nearby. She mentioned that essential services are a long walk away.
Mason criticized the council for not consulting residents before making plans. Many only learned about it through the news.
Councillor Loic Rich acknowledged the need for such housing but was also concerned about the location. He felt the community should have been informed earlier.
Rich emphasized the importance of proper management for these types of schemes. He expressed doubts about the council’s ability to run it effectively.
Councillor Rob Nolan, who oversees similar schemes, noted that while they can be well-managed, issues can arise. He agreed that community consultation was lacking.
Some councillors suggested opposing the plan due to the lack of public input. The planning committee ultimately voted against the application.
At the meeting’s end, Councillor Sam Rabey urged caution in discussing the young people who might live there. The matter will now go to Cornwall Council for a final decision.
