Potential Relocation of Homeless Individuals in Edinburgh Amid Licensing Changes
Recent news shows a plan that may move some homeless people outside Edinburgh. The plan comes as the council stops using unlicensed homes for temporary stays. The council faces legal rules and high housing needs.
Background of Temporary Accommodation Issues
Since Covid-19 began, the council has used hotels and bed and breakfasts to give emergency shelter. The move was made so that people had safe places to stay. Now, the council must check that all these homes meet the HMO license rules.
Today, about 650 homeless people live in places that do not have an HMO license. City staff try to find new homes for these people. They warn that if they do not find enough licensed places by the end of November, about 10% of these people may have to move outside the city.
Licensing Requirements and Council Challenges
The law needs that any home that houses several people must have a valid license. The rule helps keep everyone safe and healthy. Some landlords, about 30 in number, did not apply for the HMO license during the pandemic. Now, the council must end payments to these unlicensed homes.
The high cost of these unlicensed homes adds to the council’s problems. They plan to stop making these payments by early December.
Efforts for Alternative Housing Solutions
City staff have looked for new places. They have found around 70 options in nearby areas, though none are more than 50 miles away from Edinburgh. City officials hope to find homes in Edinburgh, but they also prepare to use outside places if needed. The council works on changes that will let them use the available homes better. Work on non-essential repairs is on hold so that repairs on empty homes happen faster. The plan aims to add more than 120 homes for those in need once the license requests are approved.
Conclusion
The Edinburgh council faces many problems as rules change. Their work to move people shows a desire to find safe, steady homes in the long run. With the deadline near for the new rules, the council works to make sure that safe temporary shelter is available. The issue reminds all of us that strong housing plans are needed for people who depend on support. While moving homeless people is a last option, the council stays focused on using licensed homes first. City staff will keep a close watch on the situation to help everyone find a safe place to live.
