| Furious Whitfield residents have accused Dundee City Council of presenting the conversion of a housing block on the estate into accommodation for homeless people as a “done deal” (writes Steven Bell).
The Red Admiral Court project, which has already been approved by councillors, prompted concerns in the Dunbar Park community about the impact on the area, including the possibility of falling house prices.
Letters to the Tele argue the council should have carried out consultation with residents, including a public meeting.
Red Admiral Court has been identified by housing department officials as suitable for alteration to meet new legal requirements to provide accommodation to people presenting as homeless. Most non-priority homeless people are single men aged 18 to 59, but there are also single females and childless couples.
The councillor responsible for the area, SNP group leader Willie Sawers, said he was not aware of any consultation having taken place prior to the proposal going to committee.
“The need for temporary homeless accommodation is critical. I’m well aware of large numbers of homeless having to be housed in unsuitable bed and breakfast accommodation. There is a need for temporary accommodation in flats.
“It might have been sensible, given the possible controversy surrounding such projects, for the proposal to be explained to local residents. I am happy to discuss any representations I receive from the community, and pass them on to the housing department and see if any issues can be addressed.”
A Dundee City Council spokesman said, “Consultation is not normally carried out on this type of project. There are a number of similar initiatives across the city that work well within the community. This will also apply in Whitfield.
“The project will offer quality housing and 24-hour staffing and support to its residents at a time when they may be at their most vulnerable. They will be given full support and assistance to help them move on to a permanent home.”
The Red Admiral Court block provides 20 two-apartment flats, three bedsits and three four-apartment maisonettes. There is an office and laundry attached.
It is owned by Hillcrest Housing Association but will be leased to the council. Running costs are expected to be fully covered by the income generated.
A report by director of housing Elaine Zwirlein which went before councillors noted only that chief officers within the authority had been consulted. |
