**Subject: Concerns Regarding the Conversion of Ribbon Court into a Homeless Shelter on Foleshill Road**
We, the undersigned, are writing to express our strong concerns regarding the proposal to convert the Ribbon Court building into a homeless shelter on Foleshill Road, Coventry.
Our community is deeply troubled by this development for several reasons:
1. **High Crime Rates**: According to a report from Crimerate.co.uk, Foleshill has the second-highest crime rate in Coventry. This alarming statistic raises serious concerns about the safety and security of both residents and individuals who may be placed in the proposed shelter.
2. **Proximity to Vulnerable Areas**: Ribbon Court is located directly opposite Edgewick Community Primary School and Edgwick Park playground. This location raises concerns about the safety of our children, who frequently use these facilities. Creating a homeless shelter in such close proximity to a school and playground may pose additional risks.
3. **Family and Community Impact**: Foleshill Road is home to a diverse family community and various businesses, including off-licences. The proposed change in the building’s use may disrupt the community's fabric and affect the quality of life for existing residents.
4. **Existing Services**: We would like to highlight that there is already a homeless hotel operating on Harnall Lane. Given this provision, there is no pressing need for another homeless shelter on Foleshill Road. The concentration of such facilities could place an undue burden on our local community and its resources.
5. **Balancing Responsibilities**: While we recognise our statutory duty to support vulnerable populations, we also have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our children and all Foleshill residents. It is essential that any decisions made, consider the impact on both groups.
Therefore, we request that Coventry City Council carefully reconsider the proposal to convert Ribbon Court into a homeless shelter. We believe it is crucial to find a solution that addresses the needs of vulnerable individuals without compromising the safety and well-being of families and children in our community.
This ePetition ran from 05/08/2024 to 30/09/2024 and has now finished.
55 people signed this ePetition.