The transformation of a former Isle of Wight residential home into flats has been rejected by the council, due to a shortage of care beds on the Island.
It’s despite the building’s owner saying too much work was needed to bring the closed home back into use.
IWC: Loss of care provision not been fully justified
When Seven Gables residential home, in Totland, shut last year, its owner, the Surrey-based Glycine Holdings, wanted to change it into nine flats.
Now, four months later, the Isle of Wight council has refused the plans, saying the loss of the care provision has not been fully justified and it would be an urbanisation and overdevelopment of the site.
Shortage of residential care beds
The council’s adult social care department objected to the change of use, as it said the Island has a shortage of residential care beds needed to support the most vulnerable residents.
At the time the care home closed, adult services said it was functioning well, although some elements needed replacing.
Poor CQC report
A negative inspection from the Care Quality Commission meant the council could not place individuals there until all the issues had been rectified.
Adult services said an alternative company could have taken it on, rectified the issues and made the business a success.
IWC: Previously successful care provision neglected
In its decision, the council’s planning team said there was insufficient information as to why the improvement works were not viable.
It said,
“It appears that a previously successful care provision was left without necessary improvements, which have not been fully explained or justified.”
Care homes needed
The council said Seven Gables made a significant contribution to towards the Island’s housing needs and the number of people who need care homes will continue to grow so it is crucial the Island provides such accommodation.
In its report, the council said,
“There are a wide number of concerns which go to the heart of the proposal.”
Overall, the permission has been refused for eight reasons, including inadequate road visibility and a lack of parking spaces.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
