A HOUSING association's conversion plan for a former Abbeyfield Society home for the elderly has sparked off protests in Leominster.

St John Kemble Housing Association is seeking approval to convert the vacant 10-bedroom former Abbeyfield House at 20 Etnam Street into six 'general needs' flats for single people.

The association was the lead organisation in a controversial conversion plan at the Old Library in nearby South Street.

The scheme, for Herefordshire Supported Housing Project for Young People, was approved on appeal. Work is now going ahead to provide accommodation for the 16-25 age group.

Fear of unknown

A document with the planning application last year said occupants of the old library could potentially include former young offenders, people with learning difficulties and others who have overcome drug or alcohol problems.

The plan roused protests among nearby hoteliers and traders but also gained prominent support from Patricia Thomas, the last mayor.

Some Etnam Street residents say they fear number 20 could be destined for the same type of use.

"We don't know who we are getting," said one objector, a 75-year-old widow, whose only access is via a shared side door and yard.

"People have been coming a going with clipboards but they won't tell us anything.

"I don't want this hassle at my time of life," said the woman, who asked not to be identified.

Another objector, Mark Hughes, said the change of use was specified 'for general housing needs.' Residents should be informed if the intended use was really for young people with problems.

Hereford-based Denise Shuker, spokeswoman for St John Kemble HA told the Hereford Times it was "too early to say" who would be living at Etnam Street.

"It will just be flats for single people not just of a certain age group but across the whole range," she said.

The association owned other properties in Leominster and had "a good track record" with its housing projects - none had caused problems for other residents, she added.

Planning officer Phillipa Lowe said objections were being considered and it was not yet known if the application would be recommended for approval.

The northern area planning committee is likely to be asked for its decision on July 10.