Manchester Council Seeks Court Order to Dismantle Red Tent Homeless Camp
The Manchester council is taking legal action to close the red tent homeless camp in St Peter’s Square, citing safety and sanitation concerns
Manchester, UK, Homelessness, Red Tent Camp, St Peter’s Square
Manchester: So, the council is really stepping up its game. They’ve gone to court to get a possession order to shut down that red tent homeless camp outside the town hall. It’s been there since last March, originally as a protest, but it’s stuck around longer than anyone expected.
At first, the council tried to help by offering temporary housing to over 50 people living there. But even after that, more tents popped up, and the camp became a regular sight in St Peter’s Square. They even had to clear it out for events like Remembrance Sunday and New Year’s Eve, but it just kept coming back.
Now, the council is serious about closing it down. They had a court hearing on January 13, but it didn’t go anywhere, so they’re back in court on February 11. A spokesperson for the council mentioned that the camp mostly consists of refugees who have the right to stay in the UK.
They’re stressing that help is available for anyone facing homelessness in Manchester. The council works with local charities to provide support, but they’re also clear that the square isn’t a safe or clean place to get that help.
There have been issues with safety and cleanliness, especially during big events. The council has tried different ways to manage the situation, but the number of tents keeps fluctuating. They’ve told people they can’t camp there, but some just won’t leave.
With options running out, they’re now pushing for a court order to finally close the camp. They want to make sure everyone knows there’s support available for those in need.
GM Law Centre, which is representing the camp residents, has been contacted for their take on the situation.