A planning committee has approved 32 new council homes in Lewisham.  

26 of the flats will house homeless families, while six will be supported living homes for residents with learning difficulties and/or autism. 

Throughout Lewisham there are 2,000 homeless families in temporary accommodation.  

The flats will be built on Mayow Road in Perry Vale, close to Forest Hill School. 

According to Lewisham Council: “Working in partnership with the NHS and the ‘Transforming Care Programme’, the supported living accommodation will help residents to live more independently in a safe, inclusive and integrated setting.  

“As part of the development, supported living residents will be provided with 24/7 on-site care and support, as well as an attractive communal garden space for their sole use.” 

A new special educational needs school is also planned for construction directly opposite the homes.  

Construction on the site is due to begin in spring 2020.  

Councillor Paul Bell, cabinet member for housing for said: “We are delighted that this vital development has been recognised for the value which it will add to the borough of Lewisham.  

“Mayow Road is a landmark scheme as it is a joint collaboration with the NHS, aiming to create socially integrated accommodation which will cater to both homeless families and to residents with learning difficulties and/or autism.  

“These homes reflect our determination to deliver to a variety of local housing needs while generating a sense of place and identity for people within the borough.” 

Objections to the proposals focused on the potential noise and disruption from construction and concerns were raised about potential anti-social behaviour from future tenants.