Petition Regarding Neighbours at Shire House 
 being Forced to Move by the Council Actions

Formal Petition to Luton Borough Council

We, the undersigned, urgently call upon Luton Borough Council to reconsider the enforcement actions initiated against Shire House, 400 Dallow Road, LU1 1FF. These actions are placing numerous families, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, at severe risk of turmoil, displacement, and homelessness.

Shire House has long been a safe haven for its residents, offering stability and shelter to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. If the council proceeds with its enforcement measures, the consequences will be dire:

1.        Displacement and Homelessness:

Many of the residents have no alternative housing options. Eviction would leave them homeless, exacerbating already fragile mental health conditions and perpetuating feelings of neglect and abandonment.

2.        Social and Economic Impact:

The closure of Shire House will displace over 300 people, adding significantly to the homelessness crisis. This will impose a greater burden on council resources, both financially and logistically, to rehouse displaced families.

Disruptions to residents’ lives, particularly those of children, will strain local services such as schools, healthcare providers, and social care.

3.        Vulnerability of Residents:

Many residents moved to Shire House seeking safety and stability, yet these actions now threaten to undermine their security, making them vulnerable once more.

4.        Homelessness Crisis in England:

Statistics show that an estimated 30,000 households across England become homeless each year due to tenancy terminations (source: England and Wales Housing Statistics).

The proposed enforcement measures against Shire House will add significantly to this already alarming figure.

We implore Luton Borough Council to consider the direct and devastating consequences these enforcement actions will have on residents' lives, the welfare of their children, and the cohesion of the local community. The closure of Shire House will precipitate avoidable social disruption and personal distress.

Instead of uprooting vulnerable residents, we urge the council to adopt a compassionate and considerate approach that protects these individuals and families. We believe it is the council's duty to prioritise the welfare and stability of its most vulnerable citizens.

We, the undersigned, request Luton Borough Council to:

·          Halt the enforcement actions against Shire House.

·          Conduct a comprehensive review of the decision, considering its social, economic, and humanitarian impact.

·          Explore alternatives to closure that ensure the continued safety and stability of residents.

We stand united in the belief that protecting our neighbours and supporting vulnerable individuals is essential to fostering a compassionate and resilient community.

Please sign below to support this petition and help safeguard the residents of Shire House from displacement and homelessness and to advocate for a more compassionate solution.