CASH-STRAPPED social services chiefs fear that new plans for young tearaways could leave them picking up a huge bill.

The Government is planning to set up 170 new secure accommodation places across the country.

The idea is that magistrates will no longer remand 15 and 16-years-olds in custody.

But social services chiefs are worried that they will end up having to meet the cost. Two years ago, the council had to pay out £675,000 when they had just three youngsters in secure accommodation.

Steve Gallagher, Director of Social Services, said: "At the moment, it is not clear who will have to pick up the bill.

"If these places had been available this year, it would have cost us £300,000.

"It will also give magistrates powers to remand younger children into secure accommodation.

"But it will be anyone's guess how much it will cost us every year because no one knows how many youngsters will be involved."

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