Canonsgrove has presented some challenging issues locally but I believe that we are now moving towards an acceptable solution for all parties. The emergency use of Canonsgrove to accommodate people who find themselves homeless will come to an end within two years when alternative multi-agency provisions are brought into use for appropriate long term use. The use of Canonsgrove came, in the first place, after the Government insisted, as part of pandemic preparations, that all rough sleepers be taken off the streets within a few days!

Given the time restrictions, no consultation with the community could take place in this period. Canonsgrove, standing empty with spacious accomodation seemed an ideal solution, given the emergency which the council faced. Local Liberal Democrat councillors have been working hard to find the right solution, with Sarah Wakefield proposing that residents’ suggestions for a working group were a “very good idea” and saying local people should be “more involved”. SWT will host regular meetings with all parties involved to ensure as smooth a transmission period as possible.

If you would like to hear further feedback on Canonsgrove, please sign up today!