PE01821: Renovate unused buildings to create homes for homeless people

"Unused spaces" is pretty vague. This would indicate that the Scottish Government should be able to seize the property of people who cannot find a renter or buyer or use case for their property, and that's unacceptable. If the proviso stands that these spaces are purchased at fair value from people who choose to sell, that might be okay, as would using public buildings for this purpose. Not private property though. In response to the comment which would insist on building standards, excellent insulation etc. for these buildings, who pays? The answer is "you and me", and the Scottish Government is already spending far more than they earn.

Stuart Whitby

17:19 on 04 Sep 2020

Some buildings could also be used as workshops, classrooms, IT hubs or kitchens for the unemployed to gain new practical skills or upgrade existing ones. Could be accommodation for the vulnerable in our community, disabled, those with mental health concerns or challenging life choices.

David Dean

7:35 on 31 Aug 2020

Very good idea

Tommy Mclelland

14:59 on 25 Aug 2020

Yes, but very important not to create tomorrow's slums so insist on building standards, excellent insulation etc.

Bob Morley

22:08 on 21 Aug 2020

Old discarded council buildings should be put to better use other than storage, rather than waste public money on their upkeep, put them to better use and for the good of the community

Jacqueline Marshall

21:18 on 21 Aug 2020

This is an important Petition providing one good solution to a highly urgent problem. This Petition relates to a number of Committees, as Homelessness and insecurity is a major cause of ill health, inequality, inability to socially intergrate, find employment and contribute to family, friends and society. Additionally upgrading localities helps raise whole neighbourhoods and provides jobs.

Caroline Kenneil

18:48 on 07 Aug 2020

I fully agree the Scottish Govt should utilise abandoned places to create safe living facilities for homeless people.

Natasha Robertson

9:50 on 06 Aug 2020

So much abandoned buildings in liveable conditions. A radical policy like this would give homeless people dignitiy and a better chance at accessing social services and health care and ultimately the chance to get their life back in order and better integrate into society.

Stewart McCall

18:00 on 05 Aug 2020

I would expect the Scottish Government to be fully in support of exploring this initiative.

Ross Cuffe

16:44 on 05 Aug 2020