THIS is the first picture of how a new hostel for the homeless is expected look.

The artist's impression shows the building South London YMCA hopes will replace Cornerstone House, in Dingwall Road, East Croydon.

The plans were put to the public during a series of consultation events held at the Warehouse Theatre on August 5 and 6.

Visitors to the exhibitions were given details of the project, which will involve the demolition of the existing YMCA hostel.

South London YMCA intends to submit a planning application to the council, detailing how Cornerstone House will be replaced by a purpose-built modern building.

It currently provides accommodation and support for around 117 single homeless men, who typically live there for between six months and two years.

The existing ten-storey 1960s building has become run down.

The new hostel would provide space for 80 homeless people in a mixture of studio and two-bedroom flats, with communal spaces on each floor.

Bob Brown, South London YMCA's director of asset management, said: "Cornerstone is fast-approaching the end of its natural life and the new building would enable a new way of working, with a smaller number of tenants.

"We received useful feedback and many supportive comments from the people we talked to during the consultation."