PLANS to build a residential care home for teenagers has sparked concern among residents in Mitcheldean.

A planning application has been submitted to the FoDDC by the agent WYG who are acting on behalf of the applicant, Priory Group. They propose to change the use of the house at The Uplands on the Ross Road to accommodate four teenagers with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties.

If planning permission is granted the teenagers, aged between 11 and 19, would attend the Queenswood School in Ledbury which would be operated by the Priory Group.

Lee Rawlings, who lives at Lining Wood near The Uplands, said: "I received the letter last Tuesday about the planning application and it didn't indicate exactly what the purpose of the house would be used for.

"My neighbour has heard from a member of the Mitcheldean Parish Council that the plans are to house teenagers with behavioural issues.

"If this is the case, I want to know will the teenagers be monitored if they are on the streets or will they remain within the grounds of the house? I have a young child and so do many of the other parents around here. The children like to regularly use the playground and I am concerned for their safety if the appropriate measures aren't put in place."

Clerk to Mitcheldean Parish Council, Sandra Schwanethal said: "I can't comment on the application until July 8 when it will be discussed at the planning committee meeting. I am also unaware of any concerns from residents."

The clerk has requested to extend the application deadline date to July 10.

She added: "I have requested an extra day so I can put in the councillors' comments."

A spokesperson for the Priory Group, said: "Although at an early stage in its development, this property would provide a safe and homely environment for up to four children attending one of our private schools. The location of this property is ideal for the children to flourish.  We operate a number of such establishments very successfully in many areas of the country and our homes and schools achieve excellent outcomes for the children in our care."