UPDATE: Sefton Council has confirmed its commitment to purchasing The Salfordian Hotel in Southport, a decision aimed at addressing the urgent crisis of homelessness in the borough. The council’s move comes amidst rising concerns over the allocation of the hotel’s apartments, particularly regarding the exclusion of families.
At a Special Meeting on November 19, 2023, Cllr Mike Sammon raised objections to the council’s plans, expressing apprehension about the hotel being designated solely for single adults. He emphasized that families also face homelessness and deserve consideration in this initiative. Cllr Sammon stated, “Many residents have said they would feel more assured if there was some capacity for families,” highlighting the hotel’s proximity to a family park as a suitable location for family accommodation.
However, Sefton Council officials swiftly dismissed these concerns. Cllr Liz Dowd, the cabinet member for communities and partnership, reiterated the council’s statutory duty to relieve homelessness, stating, “The purchase of The Salfordian really will support these aims.” She pointed out that approximately 70% of individuals currently in temporary accommodation are single, emphasizing the need for focused support for this demographic.
The Salfordian Hotel, which has been owned by Salford City Council since the 1960s, is now being sold to Sefton Council with the intent of bolstering its supply of temporary accommodation. The council currently assists about 270 households experiencing homelessness, with a significant proportion of demand stemming from single individuals.
Sefton’s assistant director of people and communities, Mel Ormesher, added that the acquisition would significantly enhance the council’s capacity to address the shortage of single-person accommodations. She noted that out of the current demand, roughly 207 individuals and 67 families are seeking assistance, reinforcing the necessity for immediate action.
The council’s proposal to purchase The Salfordian is set to advance to the next stage, pending necessary planning approvals. If the purchase proceeds, it will be followed by a consultation process with the Local Planning Authority to ensure compliance with regulations.
As this situation develops, the council remains focused on its mission to provide safe housing solutions for vulnerable populations. The public’s response continues to evolve, particularly concerning the implications of prioritizing single adults over families in need.
With homelessness rates escalating, the urgency for effective solutions has never been greater. Sefton Council’s decision to pursue this acquisition is positioned as a critical step toward alleviating the ongoing crisis and offering hope to those affected by homelessness in the region.
Stay tuned as more updates unfold on this pivotal issue.
