AFTER more than six months of wranglings over a planned drug and alcohol rehabilitation house for Harrow Way, the developer has dramatically withdrawn the application for the 16-bedroom facility.

The U-turn comes after months of preparation and planning by Shaftesbury Housing and its care services division, Ashley Homes, which wanted to site the home in the heart of the Harrow Way community.

Some residents who made strong objections are claiming victory, but ward councillor Pat West disagrees.

"It's not about winning and losing, but more about making the right decision. Common sense has prevailed," she said.

At a recent meeting, the proposals for the facility were reconsidered as part of an overall review of current need.

The plans for the house were drawn up some time ago and it was necessary to make sure they were still appropriate.

Both the steering group and the action committee agreed that requirements had moved on which meant it wouldn't be viable to site the project in Harrow Way.

There were concerns the scheme was too large and wouldn't be sustainable or provide the care needed for the clients.

It's been decided a new model of support and housing type is needed. This should take the form of a central six to eight-bed unit with approximately ten satellite units for residents who are more independent but still need support from the project.

A number of other issues raised by residents were also taken on board. It's hoped these comments will be kept in mind for future planning.

The scheme - to provide supported housing to people who are leaving drug or alcohol rehabilitation or detoxification programmes - will go ahead in the town and the developers Ashley Homes are now looking for more suitable sites.

Cllr Marion Kerley, the council's portfolio holder for social wellbeing, said: "This has been a learning curve for us all. We must ensure that all factors are taken into consideration when seeking to re-integrate our young people within our community."