A glowing report praising the work of staff at Leverton Hall secure unit for young people has been welcomed by Brentwood South county councillor Lionel Lee, who led the fight against it opening four years ago.

He joined in the praise, saying: "It's very well run, strictly controlled and I have to say, it's not caused Brentwood any problems."

The unit in Dark Lane, Great Warley, faced massive local opposition when it opened in 1997.

It provides secure accommodation for up to 16 youngsters aged 11 to 17, most of whom are placed there on welfare grounds because they are a risk to themselves or others.

The report, carried out by the Social Services Inspectorate and education watchdogs Ofsted, highlighted the staff's commitment and enthusiasm and noted a continued improvement in the services provided at Leverton.

Cllr Lee, who sits on a panel which discusses Leverton Hall, said it had turned out to be "totally different" from what he had expected.

"I'm very, very pleased with the way it's been run and it's nice to see the report agree with that," he said.

"The design is very good, it blends in quite nicely, and it has turned out to be very well run."

Lord Hanningfield, the leader of Essex County Council, said: "I am particularly pleased that the report recognises the commitment and enthusiasm of managers and staff who provide a safe, secure and homely environment for the young people placed at Leverton, who are a risk to themselves or others.

"We have produced an action plan and have already begun implementing the recommendations in the report."

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