MENTAL health patients in west Wiltshire will be housed in purpose-built flats in Bradford on Avon despite initial objections from residents.

The plans, submitted by West Wiltshire Housing Association to build 10, self-contained flats in Poulton, were approved at a council meeting on Thursday, March 21.

Town and district councillor Minna Gillham said: "I think people in the town were misunderstood.

"Initially there wasn't enough consultation, but I think the association is now working quite closely with residents."

The development will form a horseshoe shape around a central area with 10 car parking spaces.

The flats will contain one or two bedrooms and a communal area will have a lounge, visitors' accommodation, office kitchen and bathroom facilities.

A two-metre wide pavement will be provided in front of the site.

Spokesman for West Wiltshire Housing Association, Ellie Philips, said: "We are very pleased it's going ahead.

But residents have not always been keen to work with the association. When it held a public meeting in January, more than 50 residents packed St Margaret's Hall to air their views.

Many expressed concerns about parking and disruption and some were worried about the type of people who could be housed in the complex.

But residents were assured the homes will be for people who already live in the area and do not pose any threat.