Crime fears over hostel; EDGBASTON: Centre may be used for asylum seekers.

Byline: By Poppy Brady

THE return of asylum seekers and refugees to a hostel could mean more prostitution and crime in a part of Birmingham where millions is being spent to get the area back on its feet.

Families living near the former 120-room YWCA hostel in Stone Road, Edgbaston, said some of their children had been sexually assaulted and elderly people mugged when the hostel, also known as Rose Lodge, was occupied by single men.

Now there are plans by Aston Brook Housing Association, whose chief executive Mohammed Arwo owns the lease, to install people for up to 21 days while they are assessed for asylum or refugee status.

During a heated public meeting at Woodview community centre, many residents said they were not against asylum seekers but they were not happy to see them put back in the hostel, given the bad history of crime and prostitution in the area.

Coun Deirdre Alden said: "People are saying there are still prostitutes here and this is precisely the point. Why put single men in an area where prostitution is a problem?"

Many were unhappy with the 'transience' of the situation where people would live in the hostel for a few weeks with no allegiance to the area.

This was echoed by Angela Dyer, head of the Optima Community Association's regeneration team which is ploughing millions of pounds into redeveloping Lee Bank.

Insp Bob Sutton, of West Midlands Police said crime in the area had risen 'astronomically' the last time.

He said: "We have no criticism of the management of the hostel - this is about its location, its history and the feelings of the community. However, policing has changed drastically and we now have a neighbourhood team dedicated to this area."

But Mr Arwo said he was intending to put families into the hostel rather than single men. He said the building would have a 24-hour security service and eight full time staff providing support from the Refugee Council.

CAPTION(S):

PROBLEMS... the former YWCA hostel in Stone Road, Edgbaston could be used for asylum seekers.' FEARS... Coun Deirdre Alden.