Former Blackpool homeless hostel set for new use as council steps in

A former hostel for the homeless in Blackpool is to be brought back into use after the council agreed to buy it for a fee of up to £250,000.
Blackpool Council plans to buy the former hostelBlackpool Council plans to buy the former hostel
Blackpool Council plans to buy the former hostel

William Lyons House on Exchange Street in the town is set to re-open as supported housing for vulnerable young people managed by Blackpool Coastal Housing (BCH), the local authority-owned company that looks after council housing.

The purchase will be funded by the Housing Revenue Account, which is money generated from council house rents.

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The hostel is currently owned by Great Places Housing Association but has been empty since closing in 2014.

A council report says the building has been 'mothballed' but surveys show it is in good condition.

The report adds: "There is a need for more supported accommodation for vulnerable young people aged over 18.

"This will complement existing supported accommodation for 16 and 17-year -olds, including the hostel managed by Blackpool Coastal Housing at Clare Street and other dispersed accommodation with support."

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William Lyons House consists of 10 studio flats together with a four bedroom shared flat and a communal area, and residents are expected to stay there for between six months and two years.

The council plans to recover the cost of the purchase over a 30 year period.

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