Homeless centre will not reopen to drop-ins

Shrewsbury Ark closed its doors six weeks ago because of anti-social behaviour

A homeless centre which closed its doors to drop-in clients because of anti-social behaviour is to reopen, but only to people signing up for longer-term support.

Shrewsbury Ark shut at the start of October, citing incidents which had required police intervention and a rise in drug use.

It will reopen on Monday (20 November) under the new model.

Clients can be referred by doctors, police, social services, or by themselves, but will have to register and commit to a development plan.

Emily Bell, who chairs the charity, said she was thrilled the centre would reopen.

"The revised approach emphasises the importance of fostering progress and accountability, ensuring that individuals are supported in their efforts to move forward in life," she said.

Volunteers have used the closure to carry out improvements at the centre

The charity moved into its premises, a former pub on Castle Foregate, in March 2022, just ahead of its 50th birthday.

It said it had used the recent closure to adapt the centre for its new way of working and train its staff and volunteers.

The Ark has also continued to provide meals and support to homeless people in other venues, and has thanked the community "for its ongoing support".