Rutherglen housing project by Social Bite approved

Social Bite’s Rutherglen Supported Accommodation Project Gets Green Light

A new high-quality supported accommodation project in Rutherglen has received planning permission.

The project is a collaborative effort between South Lanarkshire Council and the charity Social Bite, situated at the former Westfield Saw Mills site on Harriet Street.

Featuring 16 sustainable modular homes known as Nest Houses, including 1 staff unit, the residences will be constructed by Scottish PropTech company Ecosystems Technologies. The site will also feature a community hub with a large community lounge, kitchen area, and essential utilities to facilitate various activities, including therapeutic group work.

Each individual home will provide top-notch accommodation with a lounge, fully equipped kitchen, bedroom, shower room, landscaped areas, and communal gardens for tenant enjoyment, enhancing the overall appeal of the area. The project will be managed by a specialist housing support provider, offering a unique approach to meeting accommodation and support needs, fostering homemaking skills in a supportive environment before transitioning to independent living.

Councillor Davie McLachlan, Chair of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’m delighted that this has been agreed today as it will help the delivery of the council’s homelessness strategy.” He commended Social Bite’s track record in delivering similar projects and anticipated a successful partnership.

Renowned homelessness charity Social Bite has been at the forefront of efforts to combat homelessness in the UK. Founder Josh Littlejohn MBE shared his excitement about the project’s approval, emphasizing the importance of providing safe, supportive homes for all individuals. He highlighted the growing homelessness crisis in Scotland and the crucial role projects like these play in breaking the cycle of homelessness.

Littlejohn expressed his gratitude to partners and supporters for their contributions, underscoring the significance of creating self-contained living spaces with integrated support services. The forthcoming village in Rutherglen, set to begin construction in early 2025 with expected completion by summer, aims to support residents in transitioning to permanent housing and employment.

Social Bite’s track record of success, particularly with its Edinburgh Village, underscores the transformative impact such initiatives can have on individuals experiencing homelessness. Over 100 residents in the Edinburgh Village have benefitted from the program, with many securing employment and moving into permanent homes.

This ambitious project represents a significant step towards addressing homelessness in Scotland and providing a pathway to independent living for those in need. By creating supportive environments and fostering self-sufficiency, Social Bite and its partners are dedicated to making a lasting impact in the fight against homelessness.