AN INNOVATIVE set of purpose-built flatpack homes have been installed in Leigh to help homeless people transition from life on the streets.

Leigh-based church and charity The Salvation Army attended the official opening of the series of purpose-built houses for people experiencing homelessness in the city.

Major Howard Russell of The Salvation Army, who own and manage the project, joined Regional Director Robert Jack of house building firm The Hill Group who gifted the purpose-built brislings, and Coun Ian Gilbert, at an official handing over of the keys to six SoloHaus modular homes.

The turnkey homes, which will prove much-needed safe and secure housing for people to rebuild their lives after a period of rough sleeping, are built to last for at least 60 years, and are designed to Future Homes Standards, which exceeds building regulations for energy efficiency and sound insulation.

Major Russell said: “We are looking forward to welcoming our first residents into their new homes in Leigh. People that are transitioning away from homelessness are often the most vulnerable in society, and here at Malachi Southend, they will be able to adjust to life off the streets, which for many, will be the first time in a long time that they will experience a period of calm and hope in their lives.

“Residents will have access to 24 hour support and The Salvation Army is working across the public and community sector to deliver wider support to the local area through our work.”

Andy Hill, Group Chief Executive at The Hill Group, said: “We designed SoloHaus to aid vulnerable individuals with nowhere to call home and I am confident that this scheme will be life changing for many Essex residents. ”

Coun Ian Gilbert, cabinet member for housing and regeneration at Southend City Council added: “We are extremely thankful to The Hill Group for making this happen and gifting these six brilliant modular homes.

“Tackling homelessness remains a priority and during the pandemic we offered emergency accommodation to many that were sleeping rough. We are determined to continue these efforts and help people off the streets through longer-term support initiatives such as this.”

Two Tree Gallery, a local artists’ run co-operative base...

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