By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter
A former friary could become accommodation for people being helped by a homelessness support charity.
The old Franciscan Friary in Gordon Road, Thorneywood, could accommodate up to eight people who are “recently homeless and are looking to go into employment and/or stable safe accommodation”.
Emmanuel House Support Centre says the residents could include people who have previously used drugs or alcohol and are engaging with support services.
There would be “wraparound” services for the people who live there.
Emmanuel House is an independent charity that supports people who are homeless, rough sleeping, in crisis, or at risk of homelessness in Nottingham.
Documents with the application to Nottingham City Council stated: “A drug user may be on a methadone script, but they will have been stable for some time.
“People in these circumstances will be suitable to go into work, and so able to live an ‘ordinary’ life.
“Additionally they will be looking to move into independent accommodation, most likely rented accommodation, and will be able to manage themselves.”
The building was vacated by the Franciscan Order 10 years ago and has been used to accommodate priests for the parish.
Half the building is used as a parish community centre and this use will continue, the applicant said.
Letters about the plans have been given to residents and a community meeting has been held on the plans.
Emmanuel House said there was “some opposition” voiced by residents during the consultation – but there was also “strong support” for it.
Concerns included the proposed location being beside a school.
Emmanuel House said: “Reassurance was given based on the existing shelter location being near a nursery and previous provision, on several occasions, being next door to a school.
“Emmanuel House has never received a complaint form a community about its previous or existing shelter provision.”
They added a housing management plan would be in place to prevent anti-social behaviour.
If approved, the applicant would install fire doors, upgrade fire alarms and install CCTV.
The application will now be considered by Nottingham City Council.
