A CONTROVERSIAL plan to convert a former bakery into homes for vulnerable people has been roundly rejected by councillors.

The application to Hartlepool Borough Council was made by North-East charity, Developing Initiatives to Support Communities, or Disc, which helps people dealing with addictions, poverty, crime and homelessness.

But neighbours of the property were worried that the new development could lead to an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour and, after hearing the debate at Hartlepool Council's Civic Centre today (Wednesday, February 18), councillors unanimously agreed with the protestors.

Andrew Harper, director of business development and marketing at Disc noted that Hartlepool Council's own planning officers had recommended approval and said the charity was considering its options and may appeal.

The plan was to create four self-contained flats with a communal lounge and kitchen. Disc has been involved in providing social housing for 25 years but the council report said the charity was "unable to identify the specifics of the people who will be living the flats" although the charity said it would have "robust tenancy agreements." A key aim of Disc is to reduce homelessness in Hartlepool.

Two petitions against the scheme were struck up gaining a combined total of 1,673 signatures. There were also 185 letters of objection.

Worries from members of the public included fear of an increase of crime and anti-social behaviour, the fact a school is close by, increase in noise and traffic concerns. About 80 members of the public attended the meeting, largely in opposition to the scheme.

Cleveland Police were consulted before the meeting and said that CCTV would need to be installed and safety measures, including a key operation system be put in place if permission was granted.

The police advice said: "These type of premises have the potential to increase crime and disorder along with raising the fear of crime to the nearby community.

"It is essential that a strict selection process be in place as to individuals that are to reside at the premises to reduce this risk."

Following the meeting, chairman of the Planning Committee, Cllr Rob Cook, Labour, said: "The main concern was residents fear of crime and anti-social behaviour and that is sufficient to be a material planning concern. We did get assurances from the charity that they vet people but it was all a bit vague about who would actually be coming in."

Mr Harper of Disc said that residents were not justified in fearing an increase in crime and the charity was "taking stock".