A FORMER hotel is now being used to house foster children as they leave the care system, triggering an investigation by Southend Council.

The Bideford Hotel, in Wilson Road, Southend, has been taken over by Canary House Care which is using the site as a safe space for over 18s as they move out of care.

Bosses at the Ilfracombe Hotel, which neighbours the Bideford Hotel, raised concerns after guests complained about noise and rubbish on the street.

Southend Council is investigating after complaints regarding an “unauthorised change of use”.

Canary House Care has applied for the building to become a house of multiple occupancy.

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Berti Makolli, owner of the Ilfracombe Hotel, said: “The whole area is so concerned about this.

“Since they have moved in they carry on all night drinking, smoking, talking with the door open and our guests have to listen to it.

“We also reported to the council about bin bags being thrown outside the hotel onto the pavement for collection. Rats and foxes were in the bins all night.”

Canary House Care insisted it would work with neighbours to minimise problems.

A spokesman said: “We are only trying to use a disused building in Southend for the benefit of young adults who can use it as an opportunity to move on to independent adult life, be supported and grow into productive members of the society.

“I have staff at the property every night to ensure that the residents are monitored and supported.

“I am proposing to deploy day staff at the house when the house is fully operational. I’m not aware of any noise or loud music. I have made arrangements to investigate this and remedy it if it were found true.

“I have now made a HMO application and I have paid the fee for it to the council.”

Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for planning, said: “We have recently been made aware of allegations regarding an unauthorised change of use at a site in Southend. Our planning officers are carrying out an investigation in line with usual practise, working with other services as appropriate.”