Temporary Covid-era homeless pods in Truro to close
Cornwall Council offers alternative support for affected residents
Cornwall Council has announced the closure of 21 homeless pods situated behind Lys Kernow/County Hall in Truro.
Originally set up as a temporary measure during the Covid pandemic, these cabins are now nearing the end of their functional lifespan, prompting the decision to shut them down.
Cornwall Council has assured that none of the residents will be forced back to street living.
All affected individuals will be offered alternative accommodation and continued support.
The 'Bunkabins,' portable cabins equipped with basic amenities, were installed in 2021.
Earlier this year, an inquest revealed the death of Ryan Staffiere, a local man who overdosed on illicit drugs in one of these pods last year.
The council’s past attempts to manage homelessness include the removal of a similar facility at Rosewarne long stay car park in Camborne due to antisocial behaviour concerns, and the abandonment of plans to construct modular units near Truro’s Tregurra Park estate.
These modular units were intended for individuals aged 18 to 25 threatened with homelessness.
Two years ago, issues such as drug paraphernalia and waste were reported near the County Hall cabin site, leading to interventions by Devon and Cornwall Police and partner agencies to address these community concerns.