Plan To Buy Newport Flats For Temporary Housing Backed By Council Panel

Plans for Isle of Wight Council to buy ten flats in Newport for more than £1 million have been backed by a key council committee.

The authority’s adult social care, public health and housing needs committee has endorsed a proposal to purchase Kiln House, which is currently used to provide temporary accommodation for residents in need.

A council report said the building is being sold, and buying it would ensure the council can continue meeting its legal duty to house vulnerable households.

More than 200 households are currently being supported in temporary accommodation across the Isle of Wight.

Laura Gaudion, the council’s strategic director for adult social care and housing, said purchasing the property would reduce ongoing leasing costs and support long-term housing plans for Island residents.

Councillor Michael Lilley described the proposed purchase as a “no-brainer” and formally proposed the committee’s endorsement.

The council currently relies heavily on privately sourced accommodation, including bed and breakfast placements, which it has committed to reducing — particularly for families.

The report warned that failing to buy Kiln House could reduce the council’s available temporary housing and increase reliance on more expensive and less suitable options.

The proposal will now go to the council’s policy, finance and resources committee for a final decision.