Extra support for rough sleepers

Watford Council is working with local homelessness charity New Hope to improve support for people experiencing rough sleeping or homelessness in the town. 

Mayor Peter Taylor and Lib Dem councillors have agreed to sell land at 124 Exchange Road at a discounted rate so that the charity can build a better facility to deliver targeted support to people in need. 

The money from the sale will be ring-fenced to support more temporary and affordable housing projects in Watford. 

Mayor Peter Taylor said: "Everyone deserves a safe place to stay and access to the support they need to help rebuild their lives. These plans will make a real difference for people experiencing homelessness, while bringing a vacant site back into use.

"By working with New Hope, as a specialist charity, we will deliver better accommodation and long-term benefits for some of the most vulnerable members of our community."