PLANS to convert a former hostel for the homeless into a church centre have been welcomed by residents.

Horndale House, in Burnhope, Newton Aycliffe, became a hostel in September 1999, despite fierce opposition from local people. They feared the building would be used to house criminals, alcoholics and drug addicts.

The hostel scheme eventually received approval after months of wrangling. But the project was not a success and the hostel closed last year.

John Robinson, project manager, said about 17 people used the hostel, but funding problems forced its closure. He believes the outcry contributed to its demise.

He said: "It was stigmatised a lot by the outrage it got. The people who were opposed to it used some strong words, like ex-offenders, paedophiles and drug addicts. But we did get some people, who stayed there for eight or nine months, so we do some good."

An application from the Christian Life Centre, in Woodham, has been lodged for a centre for church-based activities.

Diane Collier, who lives opposite the building, said: "I saw people hanging outside in the afternoons with beer cans when my kids were coming home from school. But we have not seen any activity there for quite some time.

"But I am pleased to hear this because I can handle Sunday School services and things like that."