CONTROVERSIAL plans to open a drug and alcohol service in a disused shop in Somerford have been unanimously rejected by Christchurch Borough Council.

Despite officers recommending the plans for approval, members of the planning committee felt it would be detrimental to the local community to allow a drug and alcohol treatment centre to operate on a busy parade of shops frequented by families and young children.

Steve Print, owner of Paw Prints, a shop on the parade, said: "Speaking on behalf of all of the shops, we are all worried about what consequences the service will have on our businesses.

"If this goes ahead you may be looking at a parade of boarded up shops."

But Simon Bowkett, director of client services at EDP Drug and Alcohol Services, said: "We are aware that this is an emotive area and understand people's concern about the application.

"But we do have strict policies in place. It is very unusual for us to have to take assertive action against anyone using the service but we are not afraid to if necessary."

Mr Bowkett also said that the service, which is already operating successfully in Blandford and Swanage, was not a drop-in facility but a centre for "structured engagements" where people can also come for information and health advice.

Speaking at the meeting, Grange ward councillor Denise Jones, said: "I am not against people getting help and I have tried to look at all sides of the problem. But this is absolutely the wrong place for this facility to be.

"It is entirely the right idea but in the wrong location."

Fellow ward councillor Julie Petrie added: "There are many units in a much more central location that would be more appropriate but this will have an adverse impact on the self-esteem of this local community."