Uncertainty and confusion over homeless hub facility
By Aideen O'Flaherty
There is a degree of “uncertainty and confusion” around plans for a homeless hub in the Abberley Court Hotel, according to a local councillor.
The Echo reported in 2017 that the hotel will become a homeless family hub and will cater for 40 families, with the project being led and financially supported by South Dublin County Council.
Council's plans for homeless hub are currently the subject of An Bord Pleanala appeal
Sinn Fein councillor Cathal King tabled a motion at last month’s Tallaght Area Committee meeting, where he called on South Dublin County Council to provide “a full report” on the “evolving issues” related to plans for the homeless hub.
Cllr King told The Echo: “There is a bit of uncertainty and confusion around the plans for the homeless hub – some people were of the understanding that they were going to be there for two or three years.
“There are also issues around cooking facilities and play areas.”
Cllr King added: “It’s not ideal, the ideal hub would be like the one at Tallaght Cross, where they have self-contained apartments that are used on a transitional basis.
“I don’t particularly welcome the Abberley, but the council are doing what they can.
“What I really want to see is houses being built.”
In response to Cllr King’s motion, the council stated: “This type of emergency accommodation provides a secure and stable placement for families on an on-going basis, unlike the insecurity of hotel accommodation especially during peak periods and holidays.
“The use of commercial hotels for families is not ideal and the Abberley Court hub will have the capacity to provide play space, cooking and laundry facilities and communal recreation space when renovations are complete. All works are due to be completed by April.
Not a long term housing solution
“This is not a long term housing solution as families will move into houses and apartments that will be provided under social housing support such as HAP.
“Once the Abberley Court is launched as a family hub, each family will pay a weekly rent and have the support of a key worker.
“In the interim council staff have begun to visit families in the Abberly Court to support and encourage them to source private rented accommodation using HAP.”
The council’s plans for the Abberley Court hub are currently the subject of an An Bord Pleanala appeal which was lodged by Tallaght Community Council, objecting to the development.
TCC outlined a number of objections to the development, including concerns that there is a lack of family hub development in other areas of the county such as Lucan, Clondalkin and Rathfarnham.
A decision on the appeal is due from ABP by May 22.
