THERE are now only three people sleeping rough in Swindon according to new Government figures.

But the councillor in charge of housing fears the figures mask a far grimmer situation.

In a report issued by the Rough Sleepers Unit (RSU), it is claimed that the number of people sleeping rough in Swindon has decreased from 17 in 1998 to three this year.

Nationally, the figures are said to have dropped by 71 per cent in the last three years.

Swindon Council's own figures correspond with the trend highlighted by the RSU.

In December 1997, there were six rough sleepers in Swindon.

In 1998 and 2000 there were five and in May of this year 2001 there were three no figures are available for 1999.

However, council reaction has been reserved about the figures.

Coun Andy Albinson (Con, St Margaret), lead member for Housing, is keen to make sure that the numbers really are representative of the situation in Swindon.

He said: "My overall feeling is that although the numbers decreased, I really believe that we should do more than one spot check a year.

"I don't feel confident that the downward trend is representative of the situation in Swindon."

Despite the encouraging figures for rough sleeping, a council report says the number of people defined as homeless in Swindon is continuing to rise.

Last year more than 18,000 people visited the housing needs and reception unit at Swindon Council, and specialist staff gave more than 8,000 interviews advising people on housing matters.

There are more than 630 families accepted as homeless and living in temporary accommodation and the number is rising.

The number of homeless households is 19 up on this time last year.

A council survey published last month assessed the needs of homeless people in Swindon.

It showed there is a lack of housing in Swindon for homeless families.

It expected there to be an annual shortfall of 1,366 houses.

Many reasons for homelessness were found, including relationship problems, marital breakdowns and family arguments.