Hungerford's Controversial Homeless Hostel Plans Debated

Controversial plans to convert the former old people's home on Chestnut Walk in Hungerford into a homeless hostel will be debated by West Berkshire Council's western area planning committee on Wednesday (July 15).

Locals say the hostel is not needed and will lead to an increase in crime, antisocial behaviour, noise, a rise in parking pressures and encourage drug taking.

The council says there is ongoing demand for more homeless accommodation; the number of households in temporary accommodation has risen from 100 to 163 over the last year.

The former council-run home is planned as a single supported living space with up to 12 rooms (flexible internally to allow family units) and could accommodate up to 16 residents, with staff on site to help with life skills.

Fifteen representations were received: one in support, 13 objections including Hungerford Town Council.

"It is noted that the possible devaluation of homes has been raised in objection but is not a planning matter," say WBC planners.

"However, it is also accepted that the fear of anti social behaviour and on site/off site security issues relating to potential crime and drug use are capable of being material planning matters."

Officers say the plans should be approved.

Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter