A LONG-AWAITED scheme which aims to help young people start out in life with a secure roof over their heads will move a step forward this week if members of Test Valley Borough Council's executive committee follow their officer's recommendation.

Don Whiteley, the head of estates, has recommended that the front part of the Winchester Road car park be sold enabling Devizes-based Sarsen Housing Association to build the residential element of the Foyer scheme.

The Foyer will provide first stage accommodation for young people in the 16 to 25 age group who are on the housing needs register.

"At present there is a shortage of affordable flats for this age group," said Mr Whiteley, in his report. "The intention is to provide accommodation for young people who need somewhere to live while undertaking training or working.

"The training element of the Foyer will be provided elsewhere in the town.

"Residents would be expected to move on to more independent accommodation after about two years."

The scheme is for 10 flats, an office, an interview room and a communal lounge.

Two of the flats will be for wheelchair users and the housing association will vet all potential residents. Staff will visit the Foyer daily to supervise the residents.

The development will mean the loss of 25 car spaces but will fill the space between the Wellington public house and the dentists. It would not be out of character with the area, said Mr Whiteley.