Supported Living Homes to Broaden Public Access
Ipswich Borough Council has received an application to change the use of Handford Place on Handford Road. The proposal seeks a mixed-use model for people with and without additional needs who require support.
The plans would also allow staff to sleep on site. That change would enable 24-hour care for residents.
What the planning documents say
Council documents explain some residents may be moving on from local homeless services. These people could be seeking their own tenancy and a private flat, even if they no longer need regular support.
The papers also note a local shortage of general needs housing. If a flat becomes available and no supported needs are identified, it could be offered to general needs applicants from the housing register.
History of Handford Place
In 2020, permission was granted for 22 self-contained one-bedroom specialised support living apartments. The development is now known as Handford Place.
At approval, the council required the flats to be used only as supported living accommodation. That restriction prevented their use for other types of housing.
Decision to be made
Ipswich Borough Council will decide whether to amend the original condition on occupancy. The outcome will determine if the flats can be let to general needs applicants.
- Location: Handford Place, Handford Road.
- Units approved in 2020: 22 one-bedroom apartments.
- Proposed change: mixed use for those with and without additional needs.
- Staff provision: overnight stays to permit 24-hour care.
- Possible outcome: broaden public access to supported living homes.
Filmogaz.com will monitor the council process and report on any formal decision. The council’s ruling will decide the future use of these homes.
