Leader's concern over bail scheme

ClearSprings withdrew plans for a hostel in Bodmin in February

Plans to house convicted offenders and people awaiting trial in residential property in Cornwall has concerned the leader of Kerrier District Council.

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed plans are being submitted for a Bail Accommodation Support Scheme.

A previous bid to set up a half-way house in Bodmin failed after residents protested, but alternative sites are being looked at in Redruth and Truro.

But Graham Hicks is not convinced it is the answer to prison overcrowding.

The council leader said he intends to discuss the proposals next month with ClearSprings, the company which runs the scheme on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

In February ClearSprings withdrew its proposals to house prisoners at a terraced house in a cul-de-sac in Bodmin after nearby residents claimed the area around Cherry Tree Drive would become a dangerous place to live.