The future of a controversial mental health unit was thrown into doubt after the Government stepped in to prevent it taking in higher risk patients.

Clare House, in Pound Lane, Bowers Gifford, will now only be able to house low-risk patients suffering with forms of schizophrenia.

A bid by St Andrew's Hospitals to increase the height of security boundaries to four metres was forced into the hands of the Secretary of State after Basildon Council gave it the thumbs down.

The Government inspector said: "The scheme would harm the open and visual amenities of this area of green belt.

"I have taken into account the approval of a higher means of enclosure around the premises would have allowed a wider range of mental health patients to be accommodated."

Hospital bosses have vowed to keep fighting for permission to turn the £8 million home into a medium secure unit.

Their last hope of saving face is to take the battle to the High Court - which, bosses say, is unlikely.

Campaigning residents have been toasting their efforts to stand in the way of any change in registration.

Anger was sparked among residents and councillors when a planning application for a "nursing home" was submitted for authorisation.

It was not until the permission had been given the true extent of the hospital's plans emerged.

Kevin Newman, marketing and services manager for St Andrew's, said: "We will continue to run the service as it is now. We are disappointed the appeal went against us. We do not feel the alterations would have had any affect on the green belt."

Mr Newman added his company would respect the Government decision and would not appeal further

Victory - members of Bowers Gifford and North Benfleet Community Association celebrate

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

By Kelly Clark

Reporter's e-mail: kellyc@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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