A DECISION whether or not to build a mental health unit near a school in Dartford will be heard tonight.

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 more than two years ago.

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

The Newtown Residents’ Action Group, formed in response to the planning application, is also objecting.

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 Council’s development control board will meet tonight to hear the application.

Log on to the News Shopper website tomorrow to find out the decision.