I FEEL it is necessary to respond to the points raised by Cllr Morris in his letter published in the BEN (February 28) and the remarks reported to have been made by Cllr P Howarth during a recent Social Services Committee meeting.

A rumour was circulating in the area of Harwood, close to Manor Court, suggesting that the two unused houses in the elderly persons' home complex were to be used to house problem children.

Inquiries to the Harwood councillors (in writing) brought no response, except from Cllr A P Osborn who could neither confirm nor deny the rumour.

The public meeting was called, and financed, by two local residents, in order to seek information. It is a measure of local concern that more than 100 persons attended.

Despite the fact that councillors of both major parties were present, politics was never an issue during the meeting.

The whole issue could have been resolved very easily by an earlier statement that a feasibility study was to be undertaken to "find a suitable use for the two vacant properties".

The meeting was generally very constructive, but there was, and is, strong opposition to the proposal to house children in the properties, which it has finally been admitted, were under consideration.

The opposition is not for selfish motives, nor to deny young children temporary accommodation because of parental bereavement or illness. It is because:

The intention was admitted to be to house ANY young persons aged from seven to 16 for an indeterminate period, and homeless, for whatever reason and

because more suitable use could be made of the properties to house aged persons in need of sheltered accommodation.

It was felt to be totally inappropriate to accommodate young persons, some of whom could be suffering behavioural problems, adjacent to a home housing elderly persons who are generally easily frightened.

It is pleasing that finally the authorities have agreed to "full consultation" before deciding the use of the two vacant properties.

Mr Gordon Barnes

Longsight Lane, Harwood, Bolton

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