FLATS for the homeless have opened in the city.

A plaque was unveiled at Sir Thomas White Court, in Sansome Place, Worcester, yesterday, marking the official opening of 10 flats.

Worcester Municipal Charities funded the new properties as part of its mission to help the city’s poor.

Jabba Riaz, Worcester’s Mayor, said: “It’s a fantastic use of a derelict site.

“It also tackles the homelessness issue in the city.

“It was run-down and was a bit of a dumping ground before.

“Worcester Municipal Charities have taken a lead in showing how affordable homes for homeless people can be achieved.”

David George, who works for Worcester Citizens Advice Bureau and Worcester Housing and Benefits Advice Centre, said the properties will be for homeless or vulnerably housed adults on low incomes.

He added that tenants will be charged local housing allowance rates and will not have to pay deposits, rent in advance or other fees.

Robin Walker, MP for Worcester, said: “I think there has been a shortage of affordable housing in Worcester.

“We have to keep delivering homes.”

The construction of the two housing blocks, one with four flats and the other with six, was completed this year.

The site is named after one of the founders of Worcester Municipal Charities, Sir Thomas White, who donated £104 to the organisation in 1582.

Homes England, a government housing body, has helped the charity build 37 affordable accommodation units in the last five years.