A PROBATION Service decision to appeal against blocked plans for a town bail hostel have dismayed protestors who have already seen off the proposals.

People power last year blocked controversial plans for a 25-bed bail hostel in the centre of Chester-le-Street after a passionate campaign by residents.

But following jubilant scenes at the Civic Centre when councillors voted to throw out the plans, protesters are again facing a long battle with the Probation Service.

Planning officers said the fear of increased crime caused by the hostel would lead to "a substantial and widely experienced reduction of the quality of lives' of many in the town".

A statement from County Durham Probation Service's assistant chief officer Keith Norman read: "We are committed to having a hostel in County Durham as it is totally unacceptable for us to continue to rely on our neighbours in Teesside and Northumbria.

"The site has been well researched in terms of providing all suitable services and meets all the recommendations provided by the Home Office.

"The Civic Centre site remains our favoured option, and the appeal is being lodged on the basis of securing an independent and objective view."

Protester Pam Tweddle said campaigners, who gathered more than 4,000 signatures of people opposing the original scheme, said they would do whatever it takes to ensure the plans are stopped once and for all.

She said: "I am totally dismayed that they are going to appeal, but you can be sure we will fight them to the bitter end."