A DROP-in needle exchange service for drug users won't get a warm welcome from neighbouring businesses when it moves to new premises.

Several firms and individuals have let it be known they don't want Turning Point relocating to an office block in Taunton's High Street.

They fear it will encourage drug users to congregate in the area and customers will be frightened off by anti-social behaviour.

But Taunton Deane Council planners have conditionally agreed to Turning Point moving from its current Canon Street base to a three-storey unit in Mendip House, where neighbours include a solicitor, photographer and hair and beauty salon.

Peppy Griffiths, a partner at solicitors Risdon Hosegood, said staff and client security is the firm's "foremost consideration and duty".

She added: "To provide an environment that would encourage people under the influence of drugs or being involved with drugs to congregate directly outside our office would be of extreme concern and would most certainly directly impact on our business and those of the locality."

Karly Whittaker, a partner at Sarah Hodge hair salon, said she is aware of anti-social behaviour caused by Turning Point users outside its current premises, with needles sometimes discarded in the street.

She added: "Although we understand and appreciate that there is a concern of the rising issues of drug abuse in the Taunton area, putting a centre in the main high street of town around businesses and premises where families, children and the elderly use on a regular basis is a huge concern for all involved."

A spokesman for Arditti Carpets said: "In a public high street where there is a farmers' market, children, elderly and vulnerable people, we feel this is a highly unwelcome addition.

"We already experience problems with anti-social behaviour, together with people sleeping rough and defecating in the covered area adjoining our premises."

Deane development control officer Darren Addicott said it is an appropriate use for the building, which has been vacant for more than a year.

He added: "The use within the building is unlikely to result in a nuisance to neighbouring properties.

"Whilst there are objections raised regarding anti-social behaviour, impact on shops and restaurants, and impact on entrance to Vivary Park, there is nothing to suggest that groups would gather in front of the building.

"There may be some users of the clinic waiting outside within High Street, though the perceived impact this may have is not considered to be a reason to refuse the application."