Havering Council is moving forward with a plan to convert Eastgate House in Basildon into 34 units of temporary accommodation due to an urgent housing crisis. This decision follows a previous unsuccessful attempt to convert the building. Council leaders acknowledge significant financial difficulties, forecasting a £75 million budget shortfall, emphasizing the need for prompt action. Safety and planning challenges have been raised regarding the layout of Eastgate House. The conversion will be executed by the National Housing Group without cost to the council, which will then lease the units for at least ten years to support at-risk residents.
Councillor Natasha Summers emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing, stating that Havering must be proactive in addressing future housing challenges amidst a significant budget shortfall.
The council's decision to convert Eastgate House into temporary accommodation reflects a growing concern, expressed by multiple leaders, about the housing crisis impacting their community.
Leader Gavin Callaghan highlighted that previous attempts to convert Eastgate House faced considerable safety and planning risks, which could lead to increased costs and delays.
The National Housing Group will convert Eastgate House at no cost to Havering, allowing the council to lease it for ten years to help at-risk residents.
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