A charity is hoping to set up a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre for former prisoners in a Cornish town.

Fresh Start, run by the Christian Alliance Housing Association (CAHA), is in the process of buying a former care home in Bellfield Park, St Austell.

Rachel Sanders, operations director of CAHA, says CCTV cameras and 24-hour support means local residents will not be at risk.

The charity operates similar units across the country.

CAHA says its rehab programme is proven to reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

Roy Taylor, Restormel Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing and health, said he supported the project as it could help the people being treated and could cut down on crime to feed drug habits.

The former care home would house 12 people committed to overcoming their addictions.

The charity would submit a planning application once the sale was complete.

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