A hostel to house up to 25 men who have been released on bail or probation could be built in Mitcham if a planning application is successful.

Hestia Housing and Support has outlined its plans to build the hostel in Eastfields Road, which would be staffed 24 hours a day and provide a structured environment for those on bail, providing an alternative to custody.

The company which runs two other hostels in Clapham and Streatham intends to gauge the views of local residents at a forthcoming meeting before submitting the proposals to Merton Council.

Currently, the site comprises a two-storey house and row of lock-up garages, which would be demolished to make way for the new development.

Chief executive of Hestia Richard Wiseman told the Guardian that if approved, the hostel would fit in well with the neighbourhood.

He said: Both of our other hostels have existed for years and people who live nearby are not aware of their existence.

People living in the hostels are aware that they are lucky to be there, and they respect the hostel and the area. Any breach of the rules and they are returned to court and probably go into custody.

But vice-chairman of the Eastfields Residents Association, Cecile Curtis, is not so sure: It doesnt sound as though it is going to be a helpful addition to the community, but I wouldnt mind knowing more about it, she said.

Mitcham and Morden MP Siobhain McDonagh has organised a meeting this Saturday at St Marks Church Hall, St Marks Road, from 10.30am, which is open to anyone living close to Eastfields Road.

She said: As a lifelong Mitcham resident, and someone who cares passionately about law and order, I

know this is going to be a

matter of concern to local

people.