Due to concerns for the safety and welfare of vulnerable residents, staff and local residents, it has been decided not to proceed with the plan for move-on accommodation for homeless people at Eliot Gardens, Newquay.

The decision was made by the board of trustees of Cosgarne Hall and has the support of the Truro Diocesan Board of Finance.

However, the diocese is keen to state that while this project will now not go ahead, it is committed to the provision of services to address the very real problems that exist in Cornwall for people who are vulnerable and marginalised.

Diocesan secretary Esther Pollard said: “Clearly feelings are running high about this project and we understand that in reality it would not be possible to expose people for whom life has already had significant challenges of many kinds to an environment in which they would be identified and exposed.

‘Christian care and values’

“But we do want to engage with members of this and other communities to look at ways in which we can offer caring, sympathetic and Christian care and values to people who really do need our help. We also want to take into account the feelings and concerns of those in the local neighbourhood.

“Work in this area is highly sensitive, but Cosgarne Hall can demonstrate how in other communities a property like this can not only co-exist with neighbours, but actually bring its own benefits and make a positive contribution.

“A significant number of people have not been opposed to this house being used in this way, and indeed believe it is right for the Church to fulfil its mission in this way.

‘Maintain a dialogue’

The Bishop of St Germans, The Rt Revd Dr Chris Goldsmith, said: “We sincerely hope that we will be able to maintain a dialogue and work with some of those who have been vocal about this project to look to a future in which our communities can offer a welcome to our brothers and sisters who have faced challenges in their lives.”

 

Matthew Chapter 25

35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in; 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.