Brighton housing boss hits back at shipping container development criticism

A Brighton housing boss has hit back after a shipping container development for the homeless was dubbed a “get rich-quick scheme”.

Working with QED Property, Brighton Housing Trust opened Richardson’s Yard in December after securing a five-year lease on a plot just off London Road.

The aim of the £900,000 scheme was for the 36 units to be used as temporary accommodation by those deemed homeless.

But, after gaining access for a night, James Rippingdale, a reporter for online magazine Vice, claimed “it’s less about rehabilitating long-term rough sleepers and more a get-rich-quick scheme providing a further shoe-in for urban redevelopment”.

He also said there were reports of violence and drugs while questioning why those staying there were charged £650 a month for facilities which reminded him of “an Easyjet plane”.

In response, Brighton Housing Trust chief executive Andy Winter said: “I was more saddened by the article than angry. It took a number of cheap shots based on a lack of research, inaccuracies and sensational reporting.”

Mr Winter said some of the figures quoted were inaccurate and pointed out that the residents’ rent would be covered by housing benefit.

Admitting that BHT could make a loss from its role in the scheme, Mr Winter said QED, which covered the capital costs, will make a profit of less than £36,000 – not the £1.5 million quoted.

Mr Winter admitted there had been a “very few number” of antisocial behaviour incidents and action had been taken against those responsible.

Mr Winter finished by writing: “The article was right to highlight the chronic housing shortage in Brighton and Hove, but did not recognise the small yet positive contribution this housing scheme is making.

“I am proud to be part of one of the most positive housing initiatives in the city in many years.

“My last word goes to residents: over 80% of them in our survey saying they liked having their own front door, their own kitchen and their own shower / toilet facilities, something many of them had not had for a number of years.”