FAMILIES living on a New Forest housing estate have hit out at plans to build a unit for people suffering from mental-health problems.

Protesters say their safety and security could be put at risk if Hyde Housing Association is allowed to build bedsits in Faircross Close, Holbury.

A letter sent to residents by New Forest District Council has heightened their fears.

It says: "Neither the council nor any other agency can give a guarantee that no disruption or danger will result from the scheme. However, all possible safety precautions will be put in place."

Now parish clerk Tony Le Riche has written to the district council with concerns about the proposal.

These include the possibility that the scheme could result in violent confrontations between people at the unit and other members of the community.

The district council, which owns the site, has published a leaflet to allay fears about the proposal.

Council spokesman Dave Atwill said: "The leaflet points out that the unit, if approved, would house only those who present no danger to others. Sex offenders would not be offered a place."

The proposed development would be occupied by single men and women aged between 18 and 65 who are Forest residents, or have local connections.