Modular homes could house homeless families in Swindon

The council said placing homeless families in modular houses instead of hotels will save money

A council plans to spend £2m on modular houses for homeless families.

It is hoped that providing the self-contained homes in Swindon will save the borough council money on emergency housing costs when families are placed in buildings such as hotels.

The plan will be put to the council's cabinet later as part of a larger £17m affordable housing programme.

Councillor Janine Howarth said: "We are committed to addressing homelessness in Swindon."

The plan is part of a larger £17m affordable housing programme

Last year in Swindon, more than 100 families were placed in hotel and temporary accommodation at a cost to council taxpayers of up to £1,700 a month per family.

Cabinet members will be asked to approve the purchase of the prefabricated modular units, at an estimated cost of between £85,000 and £130,000 per unit.

The council will look at a number of empty sites which might be suitable for the new homes.

Ms Howarth, said the modular homes would provide better living conditions for people and reduce the council's reliance on hotels.

"It forms an important part of our affordable housing programme, which aims to provide more homes for residents in Swindon who need them, aligning with our three missions to reduce inequality, build a better Swindon and achieve net zero," she added.

The cabinet will also be asked to approve investing £13.8m in a further 43 homes at three sites across the borough at the meeting.

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