Glasgow Faces Housing Emergency as Homelessness Reaches Critical Levels

Glasgow Faces Housing Emergency As Homelessness Reaches Critical Levels

The city of Glasgow is on the brink of a housing emergency, with homelessness reaching alarming levels, according to the councillor responsible for overseeing homelessness services. As the number of individuals in temporary accommodation continues to rise, along with an increase in the use of bed and breakfast establishments, authorities are bracing themselves for a significant surge in homelessness during the upcoming winter season.

The situation is expected to be exacerbated by the UK Home Office’s decision to expedite asylum claims in batches, which is likely to result in a higher number of individuals finding themselves without a home. If asylum seekers are granted a positive decision, they will be given a 28-day period to vacate the accommodation provided by Home Office contractor Mears. Failure to secure alternative housing within this time-frame will lead to their referral to the council’s homelessness team.

Allan Casey, City Convenor for Workforce, Homelessness, and Addiction Services, is proposing the official declaration of a housing emergency. In his motion, Casey urges the council to recognise the immense pressures faced by Glasgow City Council and the Health and Social Care Partnership, formally acknowledging that these pressures constitute a housing emergency. He also calls for concerted efforts to lobby the Scottish and UK Governments for the necessary funding and legislative changes required to address the crisis.

Estimates suggest that the acceleration of asylum applications could result in a cost of £53 million for the council in the coming year, with the Home Office indicating that it will not provide any financial assistance. Furthermore, alongside the rising number of individuals granted permission to stay, there has been an increase in the number of claims being refused. Consequently, more people find themselves ineligible for public support, falling under the category of ‘No recourse to public funds’ (NRPF), and the council anticipates a surge in rough sleeping as a consequence.

The influx of asylum seekers compounds an already growing number of individuals seeking assistance due to homelessness. Casey highlighted the strain on homelessness services in the city, citing the significant increase in approaches for housing advice and homelessness assistance made to the Health and Social Care Partnership. The escalating demand is predicted to lead to a higher number of homelessness applications and a greater reliance on temporary accommodation.

The combined effect of the increasing number of asylum decisions and the rising local homelessness rate has resulted in more individuals being placed in bed and breakfast establishments, placing the council in breach of unsuitable accommodation orders. Campaigners have long been advocating for a declaration of a housing emergency in Glasgow, emphasising the urgent need for action. They argue that the current system is failing, leaving thousands of homeless individuals languishing in substandard and squalid temporary accommodation, with detrimental effects on their physical and mental well-being.

As the situation reaches a critical point, Glasgow faces a pressing challenge in addressing the housing crisis. The declaration of a housing emergency, coupled with substantial funding and legislative support from the Scottish and UK Governments, is crucial in providing immediate relief and long-term solutions to combat homelessness and ensure the well-being and dignity of all residents in the city.

 

Source: Glasgow Times

New Gorbals Housing Association Granted Permission to Develop Homes at Pine Place

New Gorbals Housing Association Granted Permission To Develop Homes At Pine Place

In an exciting development for the Gorbals neighbourhood in Glasgow, the New Gorbals Housing Association has been granted permission to construct 18 flats and 10 houses at Pine Place. The land, previously occupied by the Gorbals Health Centre, which was demolished in early 2020, will now be transformed into a vibrant residential community.

The plans, submitted to the Glasgow City Council, outline the association’s vision of providing high-quality homes for social rent in close proximity to the centre of Glasgow. This initiative builds upon the ongoing regeneration efforts in the wider Gorbals area.

Purchased from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the site will feature a terrace of 10 townhouses, offering a combination of four and five bedrooms, each equipped with private gardens. Additionally, a five-storey block of flats will be constructed at the north end of Pine Place, with ground-floor properties specifically designed to be wheelchair-accessible.

The location of the development, near the Gorbals Rose Garden, is particularly noteworthy, as it is regarded as “one of the few places” in the area suitable for the construction of family-sized houses. The New Gorbals Housing Association has expressed its commitment to maximising the number of family homes that can be comfortably accommodated on the street.

To meet the needs of residents, the project will include the provision of 22 car parking spaces, ensuring convenient access for homeowners and tenants alike.

With the approval of the Glasgow City Council, the New Gorbals Housing Association is poised to create a thriving residential community at Pine Place, offering modern and affordable housing options in the heart of Glasgow. This development represents another positive step in the ongoing revitalisation of the Gorbals area, bringing new life and opportunities to the local community.

 

Source: Glasgow World

Traffic Changes Implemented in Glasgow’s West End Following Urban Realm Improvements

Traffic Changes Implemented In Glasgow's West End Following Urban Realm Improvements

In response to the Byres Road and Church Street Urban Realm improvements, Traffic Scotland has confirmed several changes that will be implemented, aiming to enhance traffic flow and facilitate smoother transportation in Glasgow’s West End. These modifications are scheduled to take effect on Sunday, November 5, at 8 am.

One of the key changes involves Church Street, which will transition into a one-way operation, specifically southbound, spanning its entire length. Additionally, access from Dumbarton will no longer be permitted. To improve traffic management, new traffic signals will be installed at the junction of Dumbarton Road, Church Street, and Thurso Street.

Another alteration will take place on Torness Street, where the direction of travel will be reversed, shifting from westbound to eastbound. This adjustment aims to optimise traffic patterns and improve overall efficiency in the area.

Furthermore, a new right turn has been introduced on Byres Road, allowing vehicles travelling westbound on Dumbarton Road to make the turn onto Byres Road. This addition seeks to enhance accessibility and provide motorists with increased flexibility in their routes.

To assist drivers during the transition and ensure clarity, new direction signage will be strategically placed, helping them navigate the modified road layouts effectively.

The implementation of these traffic changes follows recent reports by the Glasgow Times, which highlighted the frustrations expressed by West End residents and business owners. They voiced their discontent after witnessing the unnecessary excavation and reconstruction of two pavements on Church Street, a mere three years after their initial completion.

The alterations made to the road infrastructure aim to address traffic concerns and improve overall transportation in the West End. By optimising traffic flow and providing clearer directions, these changes are expected to enhance the commuting experience for both residents and visitors to the area. Traffic Scotland remains committed to ongoing improvements and ensuring efficient road networks throughout Glasgow.

Glasgow’s City Centre Killermont Street to Temporarily Close for 5 Days

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Starting from 6 am on Wednesday, November 1, Glasgow’s Killermont Street in the city centre will undergo a temporary closure for five days. The road segment between West Nile Street and North Hanover Street will be off-limits to all traffic except buses. This measure is necessary to facilitate essential carriageway resurfacing, ensuring the safety and quality of the road for motorists.

The closure is scheduled to conclude at 6 am on Monday, November 6, providing ample time for the necessary maintenance work to be carried out. This project aims to improve the condition of the road surface, enhancing the overall driving experience and reducing potential hazards for commuters.

During the closure period, alternative routes will be signposted to redirect traffic and minimise disruption for motorists navigating through the city centre. The decision to limit access to buses only aims to prioritise public transportation and accommodate the needs of passengers reliant on these services.

Local authorities and transportation agencies are working closely to manage the closure effectively and ensure minimal inconvenience to residents, businesses, and commuters. It is advised that motorists plan their journeys in advance, allowing for extra time or considering alternative modes of transportation to navigate through the affected area.

Carriageway resurfacing plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of road infrastructure, particularly in heavily trafficked areas. By addressing wear and tear, potholes, and other surface defects, these maintenance activities contribute to safer and more efficient road networks.

Road users and residents are encouraged to stay updated with official announcements and follow any instructions or diversions put in place by the authorities. The temporary closure of Killermont Street presents an opportunity to enhance the road’s condition, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience for all.

Once the resurfacing work is completed, Glasgow’s commuters and visitors can look forward to improved road conditions, enhanced safety, and increased convenience. The temporary inconvenience caused by the closure will pave the way for long-term benefits in terms of transportation efficiency and overall road quality.

Turtle Bay Brings a Taste of the Caribbean to Glasgow with New Restaurant Opening

Turtle Bay Brings A Taste Of The Caribbean To Glasgow With New Restaurant Opening

Food enthusiasts in Scotland are in for a treat as the popular restaurant brand, Turtle Bay, prepares to open its first establishment in Glasgow later this year. Renowned for its vibrant island bars, Caribbean-inspired flavours, and refreshing cocktails, Turtle Bay’s new Scottish restaurant will be located on St Vincent Street, at the corner of Hope Street.

To celebrate the upcoming opening, Turtle Bay has announced a series of ticketed events, offering locals and visitors in Glasgow the opportunity to experience Caribbean hospitality and savour delicious food, completely free of charge. The events, featuring lunch and dinner dishes, will span across three days, and interested guests can register through the Bay Club App for a chance to win tickets. While the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, Turtle Bay promises to release more information about the ticketed events soon.

Originally established in Bristol, Turtle Bay recently celebrated the launch of its 50th site in Camden, with the new Glasgow location set to become the 52nd, following the opening of another restaurant in Lincoln next month.

The Glasgow restaurant will have late opening hours and will provide seating for over 200 guests indoors, along with outdoor seating for nearly 40 patrons. Diners will have the opportunity to watch skilled chefs prepare their dishes in the open kitchen, complete with a jerk pit grill, while bartenders work their magic at the island bar.

Turtle Bay’s all-day food menu will feature a BBQ Jerk Pit section, offering smoky and succulent meats such as half jerk chicken and rum BBQ ribs. Traditional Caribbean cuisine will be showcased through dishes like curry goat and Kingston fried chicken, providing a tantalizing taste of the West Indies.

The restaurant’s team also revealed that their Island-inspired brunch menu, including the “Big Kingston Grilldown” featuring jerk bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, curried chickpeas, grilled roti, and eggs, will provide delicious options for all-day dining. Additionally, sample platters will allow guests to share the good times with a variety of starters, including jerk pit wings, crispy chili squid, pulled chicken doubles, and cheesy jerk fries.

Turtle Bay emphasized that their trademark rum cocktails, such as the classic Passion Rum Punch or Rum Runner, along with more exotic options like the Raspberry Reggae, will transport guests straight to the beach. Those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages can enjoy equally exciting mocktails.

Guests at Turtle Bay will have the opportunity to enjoy the restaurant’s 2-4-1 Happy Hour, featuring rum-based cocktails and pints of Red Stripe, available all day from Sunday to Thursday.

Moreover, fans of flavour can indulge in the restaurant’s famous Boozy Brunch, a two-hour Caribbean cocktail and brunching experience accompanied by tropical drinks and lively reggae beats.

Gemma Lewis, Operations Manager at Turtle Bay, expressed excitement about the brand’s expansion into Scotland, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that Turtle Bay will be opening in Scotland for the first time later this year. A milestone moment for us, we can’t wait to bring a taste of the Caribbean to Glasgow and look forward to introducing our unique soulful flavours and reggae good times to the Scottish market.”

Turtle Bay’s arrival in Glasgow will also create numerous employment opportunities for the local community, with plans to recruit 60 team members for a range of roles.

Further details about the opening will be shared soon, and in the meantime, fans can sign up for the Bay Club App to have a chance to win tickets to the opening events and gain exclusive access to updates, offers, and advance bookings before the official opening.

Glasgow Man Passes Away After Undisclosed Battle with Lung Cancer, Leaving Family Devastated

A Glasgow man, Mark Namegni, tragically lost his life just two months after experiencing pain in his side, leaving his family in profound grief. Mark had initially raised concerns about the discomfort to his wife, Nathalie, following a football game with friends on August 8. Despite attempting to go to work the next day, his condition worsened, leading him to seek medical attention.

After undergoing an X-ray and having fluid drained from the affected area, Mark’s pain persisted. Heartbreakingly, on August 10, he received the devastating news that he had lung cancer.

Mark spent nearly a month in the hospital receiving treatment, but he chose to keep his diagnosis a secret from his loved ones. It wasn’t until shortly before his passing that his wife discovered the truth about his battle with the deadly disease.

Nathalie recounted the sequence of events, saying, “Mark felt some pain in his side when he went to play football with his friends. He went to work the next day because he didn’t think the pain was serious, but when he got to work he still felt the pain. He went to the hospital to have it checked.”

Following medical examinations, Mark received the cancer diagnosis, discovering that the disease had already begun spreading throughout his body. He kept his hospitalization a secret from his wife, who was unaware of his condition until he was discharged and called to see her.

Nathalie was shocked by his appearance when she finally saw him, as he had lost a significant amount of weight. She tearfully recounted the heart-wrenching experience, saying, “When I saw him, I couldn’t recognize him, he lost so much weight. I started crying and asking what happened.”

Despite Mark’s deteriorating health and increasing difficulty in walking, he was hesitant to return to the hospital. However, his family, including his best friend and brother-in-law, attempted to persuade him to seek medical care. Eventually, an ambulance was called, and Mark was taken back to the hospital.

Mark leaves behind three children, one aged three and a set of twins who turned two shortly after their father’s passing. Nathalie had hoped to celebrate their milestone birthday alongside her husband. However, Mark had kept his illness hidden until it was too late for any effective intervention.

Nathalie shared her anguish, revealing, “The doctor told me that Mark had lung cancer. He explained to me that he didn’t want me to worry about it, that’s why he hid it. I was told by the doctor to stay with my husband because it was too late to help him. I was still hoping he’d be okay, and Mark kept saying he’d be here for the kids.”

The sudden and untimely loss of Mark has left a profound void in the lives of his family and friends. Described as a kind and loving person, Mark always prioritized the well-being and protection of his loved ones.

Fritz Manga, Mark’s best friend, expressed his grief, saying, “He was a happy guy. He enjoyed people’s company and playing football with the boys. All of a sudden, we noticed he was absent. He tried to hide it from us as well. What is upsetting us is that we didn’t know earlier so we could spend quality time with him before he went. He was my childhood friend. We convinced him to come over so we could be closer.”

To fulfill Mark’s final request, his friends and family are currently raising funds to repatriate his body to Cameroon. This gesture will allow him to be laid to rest in his home country.