Statement on disabled car park
Posted on Thursday 23rd January 2020
Newport City Council did not evict homeless people from the disabled and business permit car parks near Newport Market.
Cleansing staff did however attend yesterday (Wednesday, 22 January) to clear piles of soiled bedding, black bags full of rubbish and tents which had been abandoned along with more than 230 used hypodermic needles.
The council had issued a notice to the people living in the tents that the cleanse was taking place and they were aware of this.
The cleanse went ahead following numerous complaints from the public about the condition of the car parks near Newport Market because of their use by a small number of rough sleepers.
Complaints made to the council from drivers said they found it increasingly difficult to use the car parks due to the state they were in.
Police attended to assist council staff carrying out the cleanse.
If anyone is worried about a homeless person they can help by contacting The Housing Needs Unit who offer support to the rough sleepers via partnership arrangements with outreach teams.
Anyone concerned about anyone sleeping rough in the city can pass on their concerns via the StreetLink app
There is also more detailed information on the council website http://www.newport.gov.uk/en/Planning-Housing/Housing/Find-a-home/Homelessness.aspx