A NEW £6.2 million homeless hostel has opened in Widnes.

Brennan Lodge has been built on former derelict land in Albert Road.

It has 36 self-contained flats and three emergency rooms.

It will give 39 men and women with nowhere to go a temporary home for up to six months.

Halton Cllr Ron Hignett, board member for homelessness and housing strategy, said: “The scheme will not only provide much-needed safe and secure accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, but will support them to go on and live independently.

“The scheme is an excellent example of partnership working.”

Halton Council has teamed up with Halton Housing Trust to construct the development.

On-site staff will working closely with tenants to help build their confidence and skills to help them move on to their own homes.

The scheme includes a communal lounge, laundry room and training facilities.

The Mayor of Halton, Cllr Ellen Cargill opened the development at a ceremony on Monday.

She said: “It will give a great start to people experiencing homelessness.

“We’d like to thank Halton Housing Trust for creating a wonderful space and The Salvation Army for providing a professional service.

Nick Atkin, chief executive of Halton Housing Trust, said: “Our vision is to improve people’s lives.

“This hostel does exactly this by providing superb standards of temporary accommodation.”

Mitch Menagh, head of homelessness for the Salvation Army said: “We value the partnership between the trust and the council.

“We will work towards helping people to transition to live fulfilling lives in the community.”