CONCERNS have been raised about plans to convert a former Bournemouth council children’s home into "much-needed" temporary homes for homeless families.

Shortly before its abolition in March, the council applied for permission to convert Milton House the accommodation.

But dozens of people have objected, raising concerns about a possible increase in anti-social behaviour.

First approved for use as a children’s home in 1948, the Wellington Road building was used, until recently, to house youngsters being cared for by the council.

Should its conversion into homeless accommodation be approved, it will provide rooms for 14 families.

The council said the move would save it money while also helping it meet its housing obligations.

“The provision of this type of temporary accommodation in the area enables families to continue their day-to-day routines whilst securing more settled accommodation,” it said.

“Milton House has been identified as a suitable property to provide this much-needed temporary accommodation and contribute towards reducing costs in respect of bed and breakfast accommodation and housing benefit.”

Staffing would be provided between 9.30am and 4pm each weekday with security guards visiting regularly outside of these hours.

However, the application has attracted 38 letters of objection with concerns raised including potential increases to noise and anti-social behaviour.

Among them, Wellington Road resident Graham Brooks said the quality of life of people living nearby would be “diminished” if the change was approved.

“This is an inexcusable application without forethought of how it’s going to affect residents,” he said.

“Whilst the nobility of the cause cannot be questioned, its positioning here no doubt unfairly burdens those residents closest.”

Dorset Police had also opposed the proposals but, following a meeting with the council in August, said its concerns had been addressed.

The application will be considered by BCP Council’s planning committee on Thursday (October 3) with a recommendation that it be approved.

A report by planning officer Julie Allington says management of the property and the proposed outdoor space would be “sufficient” to ensure neighbours of the site would not be affected.