DROITWICH traders have taken a defiant stand against plans to open a youth centre on their doorstep.

They are appealing for residents to come forward and have their say on the plans to set up a youth facility in Droitwich’s High Street.

The traders are angry over the scheme despite a recent meeting with the people behind the project – a move which was meant to allay their fears.

A planning application has been submitted to change the use of the premises, which were previously occupied by the Hotelshop.

The application has been put forward by Wychavon District Council following requests from a number of town groups.

It is hoped that the buildingcan then be used to provide a community facility for Droitwich’s youngsters.

The scheme would see the ground floor used as a cafe and a place for teenagers to meet and socialise, with upstairs being used by agencies to offer advice on youth-related issues including health, drugs and careers.

However, even though shopkeepers understand the sentiment behind the centre, they feel that it is in the wrong place.

Notices have now been put up in shops and letters given to customers telling them of the traders’ concerns.

They are also asking peopletocomeforward and give their views before the consultation period ends on December 18.

Town butcher Colin Smith, from Hereford House, said: “Young people need services like this, but the High Street is not the place for it.

“Traders should be encouraged to come here. The centre would attract a high number of youngsters to the area at night, which a lot of people would find intimidating.

“We would be inviting drug users to the High Street and other troubled youngsters. Why does it have to be in such a prominent place?”

His views were echoed by Jan Bolton, chairman of Droitwich traders association DROIT.

She said: “We are determined to fight this.

“Traders in Droitwich Spa’s High Street are against having the use changed.

“There are more appropriate places than the middle of the High Street for a youth centre.”

She argues that Wychavon should open the Lido Cafe during the evening and have youngsters use that facility instead.

But Droitwich area partnership manager Janet Yates believes the High Street is the best place for the facility after getting the views of town youngsters and police.

“This just needs to be given a chance.Young people vote with their feet and already congregate in the area.

“We would be bringing the service to them rather than trying to force them somewhere they don’t want to go.

“I think traders aresendingout the wrong message to their customers of tomorrow.

“I understand their concerns, but we will manage it properly and are trying to address a need for such a place in the town. We want to give it a go and trial it for six months.”