New temporary homes for homeless people could be built on Opladen way in Crown Wood, under plans made public by Bracknell Forest Council.

Three houses for up to five people each and four flats for up to two people each would be built on the former site of a car park owned by the council.

Bracknell Forest Council says the plans will help it to provide high-quality, affordable housing for people in need.

A planning statement on behalf of the council says: “The proposed development would be conducted on under-utilised land and would deliver high-quality affordable housing within existing communities.”

“Bracknell Forest Council, Property Services, are undertaking a new scheme of development within the council to provide residential accommodation for persons of transient living, and those in critical need of housing.

“The completed project will provide a safe and secure abode until further housing assistance is available for a total of seven individuals and families.”

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The proposal became public after Bracknell Forest Council submitted its formal application for full planning permission earlier in September.

Under the plans, the houses and flats will be built on a disused car park between Opladen Way and Bagshot Road, surrounded by trees. They would be just next to the Rockhurst Car dealership and BP petrol station.

A new access road would be built off Opladen Way so that residents and visitors to the homes wouldn’t have to enter them via the dealership and petrol station.

The nearest existing houses are on Garswood, on the other side of Opladen Way. But the council says as the houses would be surrounded by trees, it would be secluded and not harm the amenity of the area.

The council says it will let the homes to individuals and families on temporary homeless licenses – for periods typically between three months and two years – until they can find longer-term housing.

Each of the three houses would include three bedrooms for up to five people. The flats would have one bedroom, housing up to two people each.

Each house and flat would also get its own parking space – with electric vehicle charging points – and one bike locker per bedroom.

The houses would also each have some private garden space, and there would be public space outside for children to play together.

To be eligible to rent the homes, the council says those who apply will have to satisfy a test for priority need.