Decision to close care home upheld

The move to close Moot Lodge had been strongly opposed

A decision to close a care home has been upheld despite numerous objections.

Dwindling numbers of residents, building limitations and its unsuitability to meet diverse needs informed Cumberland Council's move to close Moot Lodge Care Home in Brampton.

Hundreds of people objected to the closure which was called in for review by a cross party group of councillors earlier this month.

At a meeting on Wednesday, the council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee upheld the decision, saying it is in the best interest of residents and their families.

Councillor Lisa Brown said the high quality of care offered at the facility, which is currently home to seven people, had never been called into question, but the building prevented the council from meeting the evolving needs of residents.

She added: "The priority for Cumberland Council now is to ensure that every resident affected by the closure of Moot Lodge will receive the support and care they need during this transition."

At the meeting, the committee recommended that the council's executive develop a plan for future care provision in the area.

'Visiting difficulties'

The decision was called in after questions were raised over whether proper consideration was given to a public consultation that found almost 90% of respondents were in favour of keeping the facility.

A letter to the council, signed by seven Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Green councillors, said the authority should have considered a "properly costed" refurbishment plan as an alternative to closing the home.

It said: "Removing council care home facilities from a key service centre with an increasing aging population will result in residents having to be located in either Carlisle or Longtown, resulting in visiting difficulties due to lack of direct public transport links."

Ms Brown said the council was keen to work with Brampton residents to ensure the community had care facilities that enhanced dignity, quality of life and independence for residents.