Council explores modular housing as temporary accommodation solution in West Northants

02 April 2024

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is exploring options to address the growing need for temporary accommodation in the local area.

This month, officers from WNC attended Milton Keynes to view 70 new modular homes and assess if this form of temporary accommodation would be suitable in West Northamptonshire.

The three-storey modular homes two-bedroom units act as a practical alternative to providing B&B stays to local families and individuals in urgent need of somewhere to stay.

Each residential unit is equipped with furniture and contains a living/kitchen/dining space, a double-bedded room, a single/bunk bedroom and a shower room with WC and sink.

The units are intended for families to live in for up to 12 months during which time they would have access to support services including opportunities for training and work.

“Across the country we are seeing demand for temporary accommodation rocket due to cost of living increases and a lack of affordable housing.

“As a result, local authorities are having to source emergency temporary accommodation such as B&Bs and hotels for an unprecedented number of people, which is expensive for councils and taxpayers.

“Modular housing can be a cost-efficient alternative and would enable us to support families while they get back on their feet and help them to find more permanent accommodation.

“The council is actively exploring options to ensure we’re able to meet the safety and support needs of our vulnerable residents and address the growing demand for homes in West Northamptonshire.”Cllr Adam Brown, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Housing, Culture and Leisure.