New Temporary Accommodation Set to Open in March after £4.1m Investment

The District Council is committed to providing homelessness assistance, and tenancy support services in the District, and has invested £4.1 million in constructing Alexander Lodge. The building provides self-contained accommodation that is flexible to meet the bedroom needs of the residents, with interlocking rooms which can be furnished and supplied with secure storage, providing a safe, warm, and comfortable space for residents. Each property has its own private outdoor space and a play area for children and a caretaker will be on site ensuring the building stays in great shape.

Upon arrival, the tenancy support team will welcome residents, help them settle in and support them to access the immediate services and provisions they and their families need.

The team will also be working with residents to identify individual support needs, such as education, health, and employment, in anticipation of accessing more permanent accommodation. Additionally, by the Autumn, Alexander Lodge will offer a wider support package to meet key skills such as budgeting, health and well-being, home safety, and practical skills in partnership with local colleges.

Councillor Lee Brazier, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We are delighted with the upcoming opening of Alexander Lodge, which is not only a significant investment in providing temporary accommodation to residents of Newark, but also a step forward in the District Councils commitment to using green energy to support the environment.”

“This facility is modern and will enable the Council to deliver a strong homelessness support service, with a focus on helping residents achieve longer-term tenancy success. We look forward to welcoming residents to Alexander Lodge and helping them to achieve their goals."

The District Council has prioritised energy efficiency, with PV solar panels installed on the site. Green energy, along with the significant levels of insulation, will mean that Alexander Lodge will be energy efficient, warm and cheaper to heat, helping to keep service charges to a minimum with any extra energy being sold back to the National Grid.

Alexander Lodge gives the District Council a variety of options for accommodating rough sleepers when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated. This is the District Council’s crisis response when extreme events such as high or low temperatures require additional support for rough sleepers and those experiencing homelessness.

 Councillor Lee Brazier, continues: “I am pleased to report that Newark and Sherwood District Council has partnered with Lincoln and Newark College, Academy Transformation Trust Further Education (ATTFE), and Inspire to deliver a number of services to help residents move on from temporary accommodation. This truly demonstrates the nature of our district and our community’s commitment to supporting its residents.”