COUNCIL chiefs have unveiled plans to open a bail hostel in a Blackburn area already troubled by prostitutes and drug users.

The controversial move comes just months after a similar application was thrown out following complaints from local residents.

People living in Sumner Street were furious when Lancashire County County applied for planning permission to build a new bail hostel.

The residents, who won the backing of Blackburn MP Jack Straw, were worried the hostel would lead to even more problems in an area already plagued by prostitutes and drug addicts.

The latest application for a new 26-room hostel in Clayton Street near Blackburn town centre at the site of an old snooker hall seems certain to trigger a fresh wave of protests.

Businesses have complained about the numbers of prostitutes plying their trade in the area. The new bail hostel would also be situated next door to a youth centre.

The probation service needs to find a new building because their current hostel, Haworth House in Preston New Road, is in urgent need of repair. Changes to Home Office health and safety regulations also mean Haworth House can no longer be used by the probation service.

The new hostel would be used by people on bail or on licensed leave from prison and house men and women.

County Hall bosses have applied to Blackburn with Darwen Council for outline planning permission for the hostel.

A letter to Blackburn town hall reads: "Throughout the period Haworth House has been operating, public protection has been of paramount importance.

"The staff have successfully insured that all residents have abided by the rules of the hostel."

The probation service is also keen to work with the community and listen to views of anyone who has a "legitimate interest in the operation of the hostel".

Lancashire's probation service has lodged a planing application for the hostel with Blackburn with Darwen Council.

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