Construction of eight modular units to help homeless people “escape the streets” will start in the new year.

The Hill Group’s plans to place the Solohaus pods on land off St Alban’s Close, near Valley Drive, in Gravesend, were approved earlier this month.

The units are designed to house single homeless people and rough sleepers temporarily to help tackle the increase in homelessness in the borough.

They are intended for those who need low levels of support and will serve as transitional accommodation for around six months to two years before they move to private or social housing.

Leader of Gravesham council, Cllr John Burden, said the pods will be a “crucial next step” for homeless people.

He added: “They are perfect for those ready to move on from supported accommodation and become reaccustomed to more independent living whilst still being supported to manage their tenancies.

“All of the residents will have worked with our dedicated rough sleeper team and partners and will continue to do so to ensure they receive support to move into long-term settled accommodation.

“Supporting rough sleepers to escape the streets is one of our most important roles as a local council and one we know is supported by our wider community.

“I would like to thank the Hill Group for their generous donation of these pods, not only on behalf of the council, but also from of all of those who will call them home for however long they stay there in the coming years.”

The single-storey homes will form a terrace, extending the properties already near the 1,510 sq m site, and each will have a small paved area enclosed with a timber fence.

The pods also come with a fully-furnished kitchen, living and dining area with storage, bathroom and essentials such as plates, bedding and towels.

They will be installed by the Hill Group, but managed by the council’s homelessness team, who will also support the tenants.

The housebuilder donated the pods to Gravesham council back in July 2023 as part of a £15million initiative to donate 200 fully equipped modular homes to local authorities and charities.

Planning officers have since approved the scheme, despite receiving 10 objections from nearby residents over the loss of green space and fears of anti-social behaviour.

However, officers did not think the project would cause adverse impacts to the amenities of neighbouring and surrounding residents.

Instead, they said: “The proposed development would be of significant benefit in providing eight homes to help alleviate homelessness in the borough.”

SoloHaus project manager at The Hill Group, Rory Lowings, said he is “delighted” that planning permission was granted.

He added: “We look forward to delivering this important project in partnership with Gravesham council.

“This contribution reflects our commitment to help tackle homelessness and provide high-quality, long-term solutions for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“SoloHaus homes are purpose-built for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering safe, warm, and dignified accommodation.

“We are proud to bring SoloHaus to Kent and to play a part in supporting Gravesham’s efforts to end homelessness with innovative, sustainable housing that helps people take the next step toward a brighter future.”

To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

Work to erect the modular units will begin next year and is expected to take 10 weeks to complete.