Liverpool City Council has revealed plans to help rough sleepers all year round by transforming its temporary night shelter into a full-time facility.

Labre House on Camden Street, which opened in November 2017, has been so well-used that in February the council doubled its capacity to help cope with increased demand during the cold weather.

The temporary winter shelter became the first of its kind in the country to accept anyone through the doors, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The new plan for Labre House is part of a longer term strategy to support homeless people and rough sleepers under the council’s Always Room Inside banner.

Future plans include the possible creation of a new, purpose-built ‘street lifestyles hub’ on land opposite Labre House.

The proposed £3.5 million project could see a 2,000 square metre, four-storey street lifestyle hub on the site, which would provide accommodation, support services, training and employment opportunities.

Dyane Aspinall, Liverpool City Council’s interim director for adult services and health, says: “Our original intention was to refurbish the existing Labre House but building a new one will be the most cost effective solution.

“It will give the opportunity to create something really special to help some of the most disadvantaged people in our community.”

Once the new building opens, the existing Labre House would be sold to help offset the cost of the construction.

If all goes according to plan, it’s anticipated that the application for the new centre will be submitted in the summer.

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