April 29 2024

Homeless charity Social Bite has followed up its plans for a prefabricated recovery village in Dundee with proposals for 15 modular homes in Rutherglen amidst a rise in homelessness.

The charity has alighted on a brownfield site at Harriet Street for its latest venture, introducing a cluster of cabins set amidst garden grounds together with a gym and community hub hosting events such as cooking lessons and DJ sets.

Developed with South Lanarkshire Council as an alternative to expensive temporary accommodation the village will provide a supportive environment to residents to help break the cycle of sleeping rough.

Each Nest House has been designed by Ecosystems Technologies for occupation by one person using locally sourced timber. Centred on a large picture window the homes emphasise light and openness to improve mental wellbeing.

In a statement, Social Bite wrote: "We anticipate community members in South Lanarkshire will live at the village for approximately 6-12 months, though this will depend on individual needs.

"We have engaged partners in South Lanarkshire Council who will commission a third sector partner to provide a highly skilled and experienced team at the village."

Social Bite is now seeking donations to cover the capital costs of construction as well as pro bono support from the construction sector to realise its vision. A formal planning application will be filed following a consultation period with occupation expected by summer 2025. 

3 Comments

#1 Posted by L on 29 Apr 2024 at 11:17 AM

The fact that the levels of homelessness are where they are is in no doubt disappointing and saddening. But this is what architecture *could* do. Most architects go into studying for it with a goal to improve the world and once you get to practice you realise there's not really much you can do if there's no financing for it. This is a good example of how policy and honest desire to solve a problem could achieve.

Is it perfect? Probably not. Is it a step in the right direction? For sure. Less soulless high-rises and more like this please.

#2 Posted by Showbiz Sam on 30 Apr 2024 at 17:53 PM

I hope this is a successful model.
In time it would be good too see an element of individuality expressed through customisation of the nest houses as seen in hut communities throughout scotland. Perhaps through blinds/screens/brise soleil/planting etc. as the visual unfortunately looks a bit dystopian.
I wish this venture all the best.

#3 Posted by Fat Bloke on Tour on 1 May 2024 at 10:00 AM

Strong Lou Macari vibe in this proposal -- just with more "blue" sky and greenery.

Hopefully it offers a pathway from the street to a more settled / consistent / productive lifestyle.

The shadow of the Poorhouse / Workhouse ethos looms over too much of current efforts to tackle homelessness and dysfunctional lifestyles.

You are nothing / you have nothing / you will be nothing -- therefore you will do as we tell you.

No wonder so many choose the streets.

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