Residents of the vicinity of Laufásvegar 21-23, which once housed the US Embassy, have expressed serious comments about the building’s transformation into a temporary residence for refugees. The city of Reykjavík announced this week that it would lease the premises, as well as a scullery on lot no. 19, for two years, but the plans were announced to neighbors earlier this year. The case is mentioned in The morning newspaper.
“Residents are not commenting that Laufásveg 21 and 23 should be turned into refugee accommodation, but want more information on how it will be done and confirmation that it will be done in a decent way,” a comment read.
“That there will be people in decent conditions who will receive the help and facilities they need.” We are happy to receive this addition to the human flora, which is a benefit for society and, in addition, an obvious philanthropy with regard to the conditions from which the refugees flee. We still want to have confirmation that too many people will not pile up there without supervision or intervention in poorly maintained accommodation that does not make anyone successful; neither the residents, nor the neighbors, nor the city.”
Garages not suitable for living
Residents count garages on lot no. 19 are not fit to live, perhaps because of mold, since they were never meant to live. The employment agency is in charge of the operation and it is expected that the average length of stay for residents at any given time will be six months.
Residents’ comments were presented at a meeting of the Reykjavík Environment and Planning Council on February 22, along with responses from planning representatives. They state that the change in use of the building is in line with Reykjavík’s 2040 Master Plan.
The subject is covered in more detail in Morgunblaðin’s weekend newspaper.
