Mayor Tom Wootton and Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, celebrated the official opening of a new emergency accommodation facility at Charis House on Ashburnham Road.
This facility will provide eight additional high-quality emergency housing units, designed to support residents in urgent need of shelter.
Mayor Tom Wootton joined Councillor Martin-Moran-Bryant at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, adding: "It gives me great pleasure to join Phillippa and the team to officially open this facility on Ashburnham Road. Over the next few years, we plan to build on these successes by focusing on preventing all forms of homelessness and expanding our partnerships to assist more vulnerable groups, including families."
Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant said: "I am delighted to be here today, opening this fantastic new facility. The eight new units at Charis House are part of the council's wider £18 million capital programme to expand emergency housing, ensuring that we are always ready to support those in need. Each unit has been carefully designed and refurbished to a high standard, featuring its own kitchen, lounge area, and bedroom space. The location is also ideal, offering easy access to public transport and nearby amenities, ensuring convenience for our residents."
Councillor Martin-Moran-Bryant further highlighted the vital support available to residents: "Importantly, each resident will receive assistance from our dedicated team, ensuring they get the help they need to rebuild their lives. I would like to thank everyone who has worked hard to make this project a reality and I give my best wishes the residents well."
The new Charis House units mark a significant step forward in Bedford Borough’s commitment to addressing homelessness and ensuring access to quality, supportive housing.