Backpackers might house ex-prisoners

Residents of a quiet Hastings street are furious at plans to turn a backpackers into accommodation for up to 10 released prisoners right beside an established in-home childcare business.

The Corrections Department wants to convert A1 Backpackers, pictured, into accommodation for the ex-inmates with 24/7 supervision in the form of a live-in residential manager.

The property is on the corner of Plunket and Stortford streets. Residents spoken to by Stuff said they were visited by Corrections staff last week and told of the plans.

Some residents were angry because they did not believe former prisoners should live in a residential area alongside young families, the elderly and women living on their own. Others were not opposed to the reintegration of prisoners but felt they should have been given an opportunity to have a say before it reached this point.

Most concerning to the residents was that there is an established in-home childcare business next door to the property.

The growing business, run by a young couple for three years, will likely cease if Corrections’ plans come to fruition.

They did not want to be named but said it appeared Corrections was unaware of their business until last week. ‘‘We are fully aware of the need to reintegrate offenders and we understand the need to put them in a normal environment, but this is just not the right property,’’ the man said.

‘‘It would be a huge life-changer for us. We’ve had letters from concerned parents who are not sure they want children to attend, and we’re unlikely to carry on the business if this thing goes ahead.’’