A CONTROVERSIAL planning application to build a mental health unit near a school in Dartford will be heard this week.

Gravesend-based developer Cubfield Ltd wants to build a low security unit on the Tylers Site in Brent Way, which it bought from Kent County Council (KCC) in April 2007.

Parents of pupils at nearby Gateway Primary School in Milestone Road have expressed concerns over how much of a risk patients with mental illness could be to staff and students.

The Newtown Residents’ Action Group, which was formed in response to the plan, are also objecting on similar grounds.

The site currently consists of derelict buildings and a locked gate connects it to the playing field at the school.

Low security units deliver treatment and rehabilitation to people with disturbed behaviour who have been detained under the Mental Health Act.

If the application is given the go-ahead the unit will treat people with mental health disorders which include depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorders.

It will include a two-storey building with four wards, including one for women, 60 bedrooms, a courtyard and a recreational hall.

Another ward would help to treat people with brain injuries and a third storey would also be built for administration.

Dartford councillors will make their decision on Thursday.