The opening of a controversial homeless facility is imminent.

Campaigners against the 36-bed Richmond Court hostel in Boughton speculate there will be a phased opening from this Friday with three new tenants moving in each day.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s homelessness service provider, Foundation Enterprises North West (FENW), denied the opening was so soon but confirmed it will be in the “next couple of weeks”.

People who fought Richmond Court felt a city centre location would be more appropriate than their family environment.

But a residents’ newsletter indicates a willingness to work with FENW.

It reads: “This has been a difficult journey at times, but we are now reaching a point when FENW have started to demonstrate that they want to be good neighbours and work with us to preserve our community.”

Originally the facility was supposed to open last November but this was postponed until the new year following discussions with residents.

The new opening date coincides with the provision of extra CCTV in the area. Locals understand homeless people will relocate from Roodee House in Chester and Stoak Lodge in Ellesmere Port over a three-week period.