The construction of a temporary stackable housing site for homeless families is nearing completion. 

The 23 modular units at Grovelands Park in Winnersh are designed to provide accommodation whilst the occupants await a more permanent situation. 

Wokingham Borough Council says it is “committed” to finding long-term solutions to the issue of homelessness and rough sleeping. 

Executive member for housing, Cllr Stephen Conway, said: “People usually become homeless through circumstances outside their control, and they shouldn’t become isolated from these important support networks as a result.” 

Installation at Grovelands Park started this spring, with 20 units now in place and the rest expected to be finished and occupied next year. 

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The buildings are modular, meaning they’re built offsite and craned into place – which the council says “saves time, reduces disruption and is better for the environment”.   

Instigated by the previous Conservative administration, the council wanted to reduce the reliance on bed and breakfasts. The new administration claims the transition is expected to save “hundreds of thousands of pounds a year.” 

There has been criticism that the combined living space of 21.7 sqm is smaller than most two-bed accommodation.   

They replace 12 old prefabricated mobile units, which the council state “had reached the end of their natural life” and were “no longer economical to repair”. The new modules are expected to last for more than 50 years and include energy efficiency installations, such as rooftop solar panels. 

“As well as being good for the planet and cutting unnecessary costs, providing high-quality temporary housing will help homeless local families to feel safe and well at an uncertain and distressing time,” Cllr Conway added.