Wandsworth Council is set to invest over £10 million in acquiring new homes to reduce its reliance on temporary accommodation, particularly for larger families. The decision, made during a Cabinet meeting on Monday, aims to provide more stable and cost-effective housing solutions for statutory homeless households. The council plans to acquire 4-bed and larger homes, located either within Wandsworth or elsewhere in the South-West London/North Surrey area, as outlined in the Annual Resources Report.
The council approved a Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital budget variation of £10 million in 2025/26 and £15 million in 2026/27 for the proposed acquisitions, as detailed in the Annual Resources Report. This investment reflects the council's commitment to tackling homelessness and reducing the use of temporary accommodation, especially for families with children. The council is aiming for a net decrease of 22 placements in temporary accommodation during 2025/26.
The move comes as Wandsworth, like many London boroughs, faces increasing pressure on its homelessness services. The Annual Resources Report noted a 19 per cent increase in homelessness applications during 2024/25, with the overall use of temporary accommodation rising by around 5 per cent. Budgets remain under pressure, particularly in homelessness and social care.
According to the Annual Resources Report, the council aims to acquire 4-bed and larger homes to reduce the use of large temporary accommodation placements and associated costs. This initiative is expected to provide more suitable housing options for larger families, who often face challenges in finding appropriate and affordable accommodation.
Councillor Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing, highlighted the increasing pressure on temporary accommodation and the importance of innovative solutions. The council aims to provide an experience which gives them dignity.
The Annual Resources Report also noted that the council is exploring innovative approaches, including a long-term lease agreement with provision for 186 temporary accommodation units and the development of a rough sleeper hub, to address homelessness in the borough. The council is considering entering into a 6-year lease agreement for a new temporary accommodation block with 186 self-contained units located in the Tooting Broadway ward. The average cost per unit of temporary accommodation currently being used is £2,921 per month for nightly paid (GF) and £1,382 for B&B (GF), while the proposed new homes are projected to cost £59.50 per unit per night, which is approximately £1,785 per month, according to the Long Term Lease Agreement with Provision for 186 TA Units.
The council's strategy also includes a focus on homelessness prevention. The Annual Resources Report outlined targets for homelessness prevention activity in 2025/26, including interventions such as the Stay Put Stay Safe scheme and the Private Sector Housing Initiative.
This investment in new homes and homelessness prevention measures underscores Wandsworth's commitment to creating a fairer borough where all residents have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.
