Hackney Council is set to increase its stock of temporary housing with the purchase of 34 new homes in Queen's Drive. These units will provide accommodation for the most highly-supported single residents who are in need of temporary accommodation.
The Hackney Council approved the purchase of 161 Queen's Drive, N4 2AR during a Licensing Sub Committee C meeting on 12 August 2025, according to the meeting minutes. The council will fund the purchase of these properties through capital receipts from the disposals of 18-20 London Lane, 14 Dalston Lane, and land at Pearson Street.
The acquisition aims to address the increasing need for temporary accommodation within the borough, fulfilling the council's statutory duty under the Housing Act 1996. This aligns with the council's overall housing strategy by increasing the provision of temporary accommodation in the borough. The purchase is expected to reduce the council's reliance on expensive nightly-paid and out-of-borough accommodation.
The council delegated authority to the Group Director of Finance to agree on commercial terms for the transaction, and to the Director of Legal, Democratic and Electoral Services to finalise the necessary documentation.
