In a significant move to address homelessness in Liverpool, plans have been lodged to convert Pembroke Studios—a mixed-use development on Lower Gill Street—into supported accommodation for those in need. The proposal, made by YMCA Together, aims to create 94 one-bedroom apartments for temporary living, catering particularly to individuals with a history of homelessness.
Pembroke Studios, completed approximately seven years ago, consists of six storeys featuring both student accommodation and hotel facilities, alongside commercial space at street level. The proposed changes will focus primarily on repurposing the upper floors, while the commercial units on the ground floor will remain unchanged. With increasing numbers of people facing the prospect of rough sleeping in the city, Liverpool City Council has made efforts to tackle the crisis, including the establishment of a rough sleeping hub that will continue operating throughout the summer months.
The supported accommodation initiative will not only offer a place to stay for a limited period of three to six months but also include access to a team of 10 to 12 specialist workers available 24 hours a day to provide necessary support. Prospective residents will be required to agree to a licence that outlines behavioural expectations, with potential breaches leading to loss of accommodation. A minimal physical transformation of the building is needed, involving the installation of an intercom system.
This approach aligns with Liverpool City Council’s draft housing strategy, which focuses on improving short-term housing quality and reducing reliance on hotels and B&Bs for temporary accommodation. The new apartments would offer private bathrooms and integrated kitchen facilities, aiding residents in their transition to independent living.
However, not all feedback has been supportive. The Fabric District Community Interest Company (CIC) has expressed concerns regarding the concentration of supported living facilities within the area, citing a previous facility's "significant detrimental impact" on the community. They emphasise the need for a thorough consultation process before any decisions are made and advocate for controlled use of the accommodation beyond its initial commissioning period.
As the proposal heads to the city council for consideration, it remains to be seen how the community will engage with both the plans and the challenges surrounding homelessness in Liverpool.
Source: Noah Wire Services