Epsom and Ewell Borough council is set to build key temporary accommodation for families at risk of homelessness with the help of levelling up funding.

It has submitted a planning application to install three new temporary homes on a brownfield site on Fairview Road.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has received £75,000 from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ Brownfield Land Relief Fund for this project.

If the planning application is approved, work will start in March 2023.

Cllr Neil Dallen, Chair of the Strategy & Resources Committee, said: “I am delighted that this key project has been approved by Committee, and that its importance has been emphasised by the level of funding we have received from central government.

"The impact of homelessness cannot be underestimated, and increasing temporary accommodation provision for local families will have a positive impact not only on those being housed, but on the borough as a whole.

“This will now progress through the planning process and we will await the outcome with interest.”

The temporary accommodation will be built off-site and forms part of the council's Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy.

The strategy is designed to meet the needs of homeless residents and those at risk of homelessness.

Cllr Alex Coley, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, said: “The impact of homelessness cannot be underestimated.

"A home keeps you warm and safe, but it is so much more than just a roof.

"Homelessness leads to a significant reduction in emotional wellbeing, self-identity, social inclusion and life opportunities. Reducing homelessness in Epsom & Ewell will benefit everyone who lives in the borough.

“Over the past year we have expanded the Private Sector Leasing scheme, acquired an additional 14 emergency accommodation placements, and secured additional funding to enhance the East Surrey Outreach Service, who work with rough sleepers, but there is much more to be done.

"This Strategy will allow us to build on this progress to fully address the challenges local homeless people are facing, and ensure better outcomes for all.”