A WOMEN'S Aid group has hit back at Newport residents protesting against plans for a women's refuge in their street.

The safe house, for five women and their children, would be in a former family home in Bryngwyn Road.

Refuges' locations are usually kept secret to protect those living there, but United Welsh Housing Association - which applied for planning permission - named the location because of local opposition.

A spokeswoman for the local Women's Aid group said: "If we think long and hard we all know or have seen someone experiencing domestic abuse and would want them to get out.

"But where will they go? Shipped off to the back of beyond because you don't want a refuge in your back yard."

She said in the past three months the group had received more than 30 referrals - involving 45 children - for refuge and help, and that safe houses were constantly needed.

"You as a neighbourhood could help by providing a safe, happy environment for all the families in your street," she said.

"Next time you hear of a refuge in your area, spare a thought for the children, too, who have to move from family and friends, live in a strange house and go to a new school, without being reminded of the stigma of living in a refuge."

Residents expressed concern about the safety of children in the creche next door to the proposed refuge, women's ex-partners hanging around, and visits from police.

But the spokeswoman claimed their fears were unfounded. She said: "The only reason ex-partners hang around and harass is because people who live around a refuge don't realise the importance of keeping a 'safe house' safe and confidential, and give the abusers directions."

Plans for the refuge are expected to go before Newport council's planning committee on October 24.

Residents of Bryngwyn Road and the surrounding area unanimously objected to the plans at a public meeting and are now writing letters of opposition to be considered with the application.