Two homes in residential streets will be used to house homeless people – despite neighbours’ fears of drug dealing, vandalism and late-night noise.
Charity Porchlight has won its bid to accommodate eight people across the four-bedroom properties in Ramsgate and Margate.
But while it says the move will “significantly improve” the prospects of its clients, those living nearby have raised serious concerns.
The houses in Southwood Road and Queen’s Avenue are owned by the homelessness charity, with the latter in Margate already being used as accommodation for two people.
But to be allowed to house four individuals in each Porchlight had to apply to make the properties Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs), with permission recently granted.
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Responding to the Southwood Road application, one neighbour said the move would “jeopardise” the safety of youngsters.
“This street comprises families, many who have young children,” they said.
“By allowing an HMO for people experiencing homelessness, you jeopardise the safety of the numerous kids who live on the street.
“Homelessness is associated with poor mental health and increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse.
“By bringing this onto a residential street, you are increasing the possibility of antisocial behaviour associated with the lifestyle.”
Eleven objections were received across both applications.
Another resident of Southwood Road said: “I don’t believe the people will be watched or monitored by Porchlight as they haven’t before, leading to further drug problems and other illegal activities.
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“This will cause issues with the safety of myself and my neighbours in the street.
“I do not feel safe now in my own road, in the property that I own.
“I completely object to this planning application due to massive safety and security concerns which will have an impact on the mental health and well-being of myself and other residents in the street.”
“My kids deserve to not live in fear of the neighbours…”
Another neighbour expressed concern for his 12-year-old daughter, explaining: “Since the current ownership has taken hold, there have been lots of issues of late-night noise, drug dealings and vandalism to vehicles.
“I have two young children, both of school age, that deserve the right to a decent night’s sleep and to not live in fear of the neighbours.
“My oldest child is 12 and I am deeply concerned at the influence this will have on her studies and her increasing want for freedom to go out without her parents.
“This is not personal. Porchlight does some wonderful work but a little bit of insight and forethought should tell you this is not the place to do it.”
The charity says it is keen to “utilise the properties to their full potential”, saying the move will “significantly improve the health, and future prospects for those accommodated and could even save lives”.
Spokesman Chris Thomas stated: “Thanet’s in the grip of a housing emergency and being able to use these four-bedroom properties to their full potential will save lives.
“Both properties will house a maximum of four people each, with our staff making regular visits.
“Our Margate property already has two long-term residents and our Ramsgate property has been empty for five months.”
Mr Thomas understands that neighbours might have concerns, adding locals have been given a number to call should they have any problems.
“They can contact us at any time to talk things through,” he said.
“The reality is that our residents are going through the toughest time in their lives and just want somewhere safe to live and help to get back on their feet.
“The journey from homelessness to independence can take time, but many end up giving back to the community by volunteering or being part of local groups and clubs.
“We also have rules in place about the conduct of our residents.
“If repeatedly broken, which is rare, we’ll make alternative living arrangements for those involved.
“Ultimately, people facing homelessness are no different to the rest of us.
“At a time that so many are ending up on the streets, we’re glad to have the chance to provide them with safety and security by using these properties to their full potential.”
Concerns were also raised about a lack of off-road parking, but agent DHA Planning reassured: “Due to the nature of the applicant and the reason for the HMO, it is unlikely that future occupants will have access to a car.”
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