A SOCIAL services boss has angrily dismissed claims that the council is considering creating a centre for teenagers with behavioural difficulties in the grounds of an old people's home.

But the chairman of the social services committee, Cllr Cliff Morris, has said that a feasibility study is being undertaken to see if two empty properties on the site could be used for "children who need to live away from home".

Fears

This week, Cllr Morris addressed concerned residents at a packed public meeting to allay fears.

More than 100 people attended the meeting at Longsight Methodist Hall, Harwood.

Cllr Morris was met with staunch opposition to proposals to accommodate "displaced" children in the empty houses on the grounds of Manor Court Elderly Persons Home.

The meeting was called after the BEN highlighted the council's plans for the properties.

In a letter responding to the report, Cllr Morris said: "The properties concerned are two small former staff houses which have been unused for some time.

"If they were to be used to accommodate children, then the total number would be no more than three or four at any time.

"To suggest that any such children have behavioural difficulties is also misleading.

"If the houses were to be used to provide accommodation, they would be for local children who need to live away from home for a number of reasons including for example, the death of a parent or a parent in hospital.

"To ensure the council is making the most effective use of its buildings, a range of options for the houses need to be considered before any final decision is made.

"There would be full consultation with the local community.

"I am very disappointed at such a negative reaction to the council and the children who need all our help and support."

However, a resident who attended the meeting, said: "I think the houses are unsuitable because they are close to the old people's home and to a neighbourhood comprising of many bungalows for older people.

"It is not the right environment for young or old people. Alternatives must surely be to sell the houses or to use them to house handicapped older people who can live independently."

Another resident said: "There are plenty of other empty properties which could be used.

"Cllr Morris has not allayed my fears. If a feasibility study is being drawn up, then there must be serious consideration being given to the plans.

"The ward councillors saw the strength of feeling against the proposals at the meeting and said they would oppose them."

Mr Walter Hall, prospective Conservative Candidate for Bradshaw Ward, added: "This is the wrong location for this sort of scheme and is totally unacceptable."

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