WORRIED residents have told of their fears at plans to build flats and houses for homeless youths in their quiet street.

A two-storey block of 17 flats for homeless and unemployed youngsters, aged 16 to 24, will be developed in Southview Road, Vange, the Echo can reveal.

Swan Housing Group also has permission to build three three-storey houses nearby for other youths.

Neighbours are outraged and worried the centre will be a magnet for yobs and troublemakers.

Kelvin Clowting, 59, said: "I have lived here ten years and it has been lovely and quiet.

"All we have to look forward to now is two years of building followed by XR3i's and screaming ex-husbands and wives trying to get in.

"The old office was an eyesore from my garden, but this will be two storeys looming right over us.

"I understand people down on their luck need somewhere to live, but not in a residential street."

Mum-of-three Tanya Barker, 24, said: "I want an exchange for a bigger place for my kids, but no one will swap now.

"I am worried it will all be drinking and drugs when they move in."

The flats will be similar to the Basildon Foyer at Cranes Court, Basildon, which houses youngsters.

Jack Brunt, 66, and wife Carole, 59, went to see it when they learned of the news.

They said: "It wasn't too bad because it is tucked out of the way. But this will cause real problems because it is right in the middle of family homes. Can you think of anywhere worse?

"Everyone round here thought it was going to be a bail hostel."

Swan said the "foyer" would be for vulnerable youths, not ex-offenders.

It includes: l 15 parking spaces l meeting rooms l patio/BBQ area l laundry facilities l IT training centre.

The housing association said the one-bedroom flats will be available for youngsters who are in need of housing, unemployed, in training or low paid work, or who need help with basic skills.

Spokesman Paul Heb- den said: "The purpose of the foyer is to ensure residents make the best possible use of the opportunities available. "For example, the Basildon Foyer works with and assists Foyer residents to access work placements and to take up further education.

"The foyer aims to help young people in the local area to obtain confidence and independence and to assist them in achieving their full potential.

"Swan Housing Group strongly believes in the service provided to the community by these type of developments.

"It will assist young people planning to become independent or committed to developing and planning for their own future."

A letter to residents said the site would be staffed around the clock with CCTV surveillance and local people would also be able to use the computer centre.