A DISUSED Keighley building has been transformed into supported accommodation for the homeless.

Wesley House, in Halifax Road, Ingrow, had stood empty for four years – latterly being used as a refuge for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

Now the Victorian property has been completely renovated and is providing so-called move-on accommodation for people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.

It is able to cater for eight single people, or single parents with a child.

There is also an onsite office and communal area – and garden space for picnics and recreational use.

The aim of the scheme is to support people as they move towards independent living.

Behind the initiative is Chartford Housing Limited, which was helped with a £280,000 grant from Homes England.

Chartford is the development arm of Horton Housing Association and is a registered provider, which means it can access funding from the Homes England Affordable Homes Programme.

In its first five years of operation, Chartford Housing has secured £2.6 million from the programme to create 103 new homes in Bradford, Calderdale and North Yorkshire.

It also acts as landlord for a further 292 properties across West and North Yorkshire.

Mark Dowson, chairman of Chartford Housing’s board of directors, said the Wesley House scheme would provide much-needed support.

“This is a most welcome development,” he said.

“It will provide much-needed supported housing in Keighley for people who are homeless and require a level of help to manage accommodation.

“This development of good-quality affordable housing was completed on schedule – which has been very challenging during the lockdown restrictions – and the new residents will be able to move in soon.”

Horton Housing Association will provide support for residents, including help with understanding their rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

And they will be supported to access health, social and employment, training and education services, as well as engaging with the community.

Sue Atkinson, services director at Horton Housing Association, said: “We are delighted to be able to reopen Wesley House and use it as move-on accommodation for homeless people in Keighley.

“The support we provide will help people who are struggling to maintain a tenancy to get the assistance they need to move on to independent living in the community."