MORE than 180 residents have signed a petition against plans for a homeless hostel close to family homes.

A block of 16 flats for homeless people could still be built in Pound Lane, Laindon, after housing association Family Mosaic appealed against Basildon Council’s refusal of the plans.

Residents who fear unsupervised drug addicts and alcoholics on their doorstep, have united in a bid to stop the development.

The building, which would be built where a pair of homes once stood, opposite Nursery Gardens, is intended to replace the ageing Rylands Hostel in Wickford, which no longer meets modern standards.

Michael Marchant, of Pound Lane, who has helped gather signatures, said: “It would be totally alien to the character and environment of the area.

“It’s a very overpowering building, which is completely out of character with this residential area. We feel it needs to be in the proper place.

“Now FamilyMosaic is appealing, despite the council’s unanimous decision.”

Neighbours feel the development, which would include a management office, a courtyard and a car park, would be unsuitable for the quiet, residential area.

Family Mosaic already runs Arne Court, in Holst Avenue, Laindon, which offers round-theclock supervision for residents in need of support and safeguarding.

The Pound Lane development would have staff on site five hours a day to offer training and help residents find long-term accommodation.

Labour councillor for Laindon Park, John Scarola, who organised the petition, said: “There is no valid reason for them to move to Laindon.

“It seems to be the dumping ground for everything.

“There’s already a proposal for up to 6,000 homes nearby on Dunton Garden Suburb.”

Gavin Callaghan, Labour councillor for Pitsea North West and the party’s candidate for Basildon and Billericay, said: “I have written to all the residents in Laindon, asking them to write to the planning inspector.

“It should be a town centre project, really.”

A Basildon Council spokesman said: “The reasons for refusal are a matter of public record and the council will submit its supporting statement to the planning inspectorate in due course.

“As such, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”