Isle of Sheppey care home closes due to water concerns

Blackburn Lodge is owned by Kent County Council

A care home on the Isle of Sheppey is closing with immediate effect due to health and safety concerns.

Residents at Blackburn Lodge in Sheerness are being moved to alternative accommodation.

Water purity tests at the home found iron had risen "in contradiction of health and safety regulations", said Kent County Council (KCC).

"Currently, no related resident health issues have been identified and bottled water has been provided," said KCC.

The council said in a statement that it was working with staff from Blackburn Lodge "to identify appropriate new homes" for residents as soon as possible.

"Members of staff and relative unions are currently being consulted and supported with the intention that staff affected will be redeployed," KCC added.

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