A children's home is set to close after years of complaints.

It follows the final all-clear for an alternative site at Little Clacton. Neighbours have welcomed the news that Lane Cottage in Walton will shut.

Town district councillor Mick Page said residents were worried it would become a permanent fixture.

Roy Smith, who was chairman of the county's social services committee which proposed plan two years ago, said the likely closure date was 2001.

And he dismissed fears that it would continue as a home for children in care. "In my mind there will be no children there," he said.

Mr Smith said it was likely the large seafront home in Green Lane was likely to be declared surplus to requirements and sold - possibly as a home for the elderly or flats.

The search for a new home in north Essex has been going on since 1996 but has been delayed by widespread opposition.

For years uneasy neighbours in Walton have made claims over instances of unruly behaviour, drunkenness and vandalism.

But the youngsters, past and present staff, social workers and county officials claim they have been blown out of proportion.

Mr Smith felt in the last few years things had improved. And he congratulated the neighbours for their co-operation and support.

The long-term unit which took up to nine youngsters was opened in the early 1950s.

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