A NEEDLE exchange service for drug addicts is to be run from a town hall.

It is estimated that 50 to 60 people a week will visit the drop-in service, to open in the old taxi licensing offices in Middlesbrough's town hall.

The visitors will be carers as well as well as addicts.

Councillor Brenda Thompson, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for health and social care, said: "We want this service to be used, which is why it is important it is located centrally.

"It offers a range of services to people who are already seeking advice and support for their drug use.

"That support does include a needle exchange, which as people would expect, will be strictly controlled and carefully monitored.''

The centre will provide advice, health screenings and support for carers, in addition to the needle exchange.

It will be managed by the national charity Lifeline.

The entrance will be kept separate from the rest of the town hall offices and other public access points, and will be open during normal office hours.

Coun Thompson forecast that the service, which she sees as an essential part of the local public health network, will have minimal impact on people who come to the town hall or town centre.

She said: "Lifeline has an excellent track record in running facilities, and we will expect them to keep to the highest standards.

"All towns and cities have to have strategies to deal with drug use, and to minimise the harm that it causes to individuals.

"In Middlesbrough, we work closely with the primary care trust to ensure those strategies are robust and workable.

"This facility will go a long way to ensuring better health and appropriate and timely support for people using drugs.''