THREE teenagers met Wales' Children's Commissioner Peter Clarke to ask his advice on fighting plans for a drug rehabilitation centre planned near their homes.

Blackwood teenagers Louisa Cavell, 16, her 13-year-old brother David and their neighbour Sarah Morris, 13, are opposing Caerphilly council's proposal to create a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre.

The three Pontllanfraith Comprehensive students live on Highbury Drive, close to the proposed site at Highbury House, and say it is too close to Libanus Primary School.

They contacted Mr Clarke who invited them in. His role includes ensuring under-18s have a voice in their communities.

The proposed centre would house up to seven ex-drug or alcohol addicts for up to six months at a time and would have 24-hour staffing.

The centre would have a zero-tolerance policy on drug or alcohol use but the teenagers are concerned that if occupants relapse it might mean people would be buying, selling or taking drugs near the school.

Sarah said: "I walk past the house on my way to school and I would not feel happy doing that any more."

Louisa added: "The back gate opens onto the field where we all meet up and hang out in summer."

David said: "We learnt about drug and alcohol addiction and it is good they will be getting help.

"But that doesn't mean it should be based here." Following the advice of Mr Clarke they are now writing letters to councillors and their MP explaining why they are so worried.

They also plan to start a petition and will be joining protesters at the April 4 council meeting where the plans will be discussed.

Highbury House was bought by Charter Housing Association earlier this year.