Homeless charity outlines plans to increase supply of supported housing in Bedford’s Queen’s Park Bedford News

A homeless charity has submitted plans to increase its supply in the Queen’s Park area of ​​Bedford.

The King’s Arms Project offers a variety of support services to individuals and families who need help exiting homelessness.

The proposal is to convert space at the rear of the property at 26 Winifred Road, Bedford into two bedrooms and to re-open a third bedroom, which had been used for staff sleepovers.

This will increase the building’s HMO (multiple occupancy house) capacity from eight to 11 single-use rooms.

The charity said the Covid-19 pandemic has caused changes to the way support is provided, meaning shared units are no longer suitable.

The application added that the building has been used in a number of different capacities over the years, including as a care home and hostel for up to 14 residents.

Also in the request, it was noted that the charity’s client group usually cannot afford to buy cars, so they do not need to increase the number of places allocated parking spaces.

Especially, he added, because the locality of the property allows residents to get around by public transport, bicycle or on foot.