A decison on plans for a halfway house for recovering drug and alcohol addicts has been postponed.

Chelmsford Council's planning committee decided last night (Monday) that plans to build eight flats for use by addicts in Arbour Lane, Chelmsford, could not be decided until they had visited the site.

The decision was welcomed by more than 100 residents who turned up to the meeting to voice their opposition.

Throughout the meeting, they could be heard to make remarks such as "it's disgusting" and at one point, councillor Ian Wright (Con Little Baddow, Danbury and Sandon) turned to the gallery saying: "Give this committee a chance to listen to both sides, that's all we ask."

From the gallery, Emma Rush, of Hillary Close Chelmsford said: "I cannot handle the possibility of my children picking up needles that have been left lying around. How many people are rehabilitated and never offend again. Not very many."

Tony Seaman of Arbour Lane, Chelmsford, also opposed the site on traffic and road problem grounds.

As part of his presentation, which included detailed drawings and a traffic survey, he said that the site was inappropriate and that increased volume of traffic and removal of hedgerows could cause road fatalities.

The committee was told that all tenants would have undergone a period of rehabilitation, that other sites had been considered but Arbour Lane was the most suitable.

Councillor Bill Horslen (Lab All Saints) called for a site visit.

Anyone who wishes to be present at this site visit is asked to contact the democratic services officer at Chelmsford Council.

By Emily Banfield

Reporter's e-mail: emily_banfield@thisisessex.co.uk

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