THE controversial scheme to treat drug addicts at a new detoxification facility to be built in Townshend has faced opposition from nearby residents.

The Bosence Farm Community has been given the green light to extend the centre which houses people recovering from alcohol dependency.

But now, in the light of the new proposal, neighbouring homeowners have raised concerns over safety.

The clerk for St Hilary parish, Roger Calfe, says opinion is split 50-50 over the proposal.

The construction of the new 15-bed treatment facility is expected to start in April and it should open a year later.

The chief executive of Bosence Farm Community Derek Mace says they are not building a 'prison type' detoxification facility to which people will be sent and detained.

The misinterpretation of the term 'secure unit', according to him, has led to assumptions that the facility is linked with the criminal justice system.

"This could not be farther from the truth," he said.

"Every client will be there as part of a voluntary planned treatment and rehabilitation programme."