A DESERTED building could be used to host fleeing Ukrainian refugees if and when they arrive in Colchester.

The former Trippier House building, in Blackthorn Avenue, Greenstead, has repeatedly been targeted by destructive vandals in recent weeks.

But it could soon play home to refugees after the idea was put to Colchester Council by both a councillor and community.

Greenstead councillor Tim Young says the site, which was formerly a care home, could be the perfect fit for refugees if much-needed renovation works are undertaken.

He said: “I think it’s a great idea and have put it to the company which owns the building. Colchester Council said it has had others suggest the idea too.

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“The company, however, is saying the site is in no fit state at the moment due to the vandalism and damage which has been caused there, but it didn’t rule the idea out.

“What we need is for it to secure the building, make it safe and start the work while hopefully getting temporary permission for if and when refugees come to Colchester.

“It’s a big, empty building and obviously we’re going to get Ukrainians here and I feel they’d be welcome in Greenstead.

“There are amazing people here, they don’t have a lot but the little they do have they are willing to share.”

In recent weeks, the site has been the target of anti-social behaviour with eyewitnesses reporting seeing as many as 13 teenage louts repeatedly “causing havoc” in the area.

 

Gazette: Older and more vulnerable residents living in neighbouring bungalows have also been on the receiving end of the gang’s bad behaviour.

A community meeting on Monday heard how Trippier House is now securely boarded and the results of an asbestos report are being awaited.

Anti-vandal paint has also been applied at the site, Greenstead councillor Julie Young said.

She added, following the asbestos report’s publication, a decision will then be made about a refit to create new accommodation.

If a refit is agreed by Colchester Council, on-site security is planned to be present while work takes place.