Grantham council officials are considering reopening a night shelter to tackle a rising issue of rough sleeping within the town. South Kesteven District Council has been discussing the prospect of reopening The Grantham Ark, a facility that previously provided short-term housing through the colder months. Housing Executive Member, Councillor Virginia Moran, pointed out that the visibility of rough sleepers has increased, with rough estimates indicating 10 to 12 active encampments spread across public locations in Grantham. The council is determined to face up to the problems it had previously encountered with refusal of admission and exclusions at the shelter. By tentatively reopening it, they hope to properly assess demand. Various stakeholders are expected to attend a meeting scheduled for 23 June to discuss legal and safe ways to address this escalading issue.
This information has been updated from its original publication on www.bbc.com.
