Care homes in Somerset threatened with closure could be saved

Critchill Court is currently run by Somerset Care

Two care homes which were threatened with closure could now be saved.

At the end of February, Somerset Care announced it would be consulting on the closure of Sunnymeade in Chard and Critchill Court in Frome, sparking petitions against the decision.

But care agency Agincare has now expressed an interest in taking over both homes.

Somerset Care has suspended its consultation whilst negotiations take place.

In a letter sent to residents and staff, which has been seen by the BBC, Somerset Care CEO Chris Wall said operating the two homes was no longer "financially viable or environmentally sustainable".

"Somerset Care remains committed to its strategy of quality, efficiency and growth," the letter said.

Negotiations between Somerset Care and Agincare are believed to be ongoing

"By taking responsible decisions now, we can evolve and grow our care offering to meet future care needs, and ensure a robust business that is better able to support our employees and customers for years to come," it added.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said that councillor Connor Payne, from Somerset Council, also confirmed the ongoing negotiations with Agnicare.

The family-owned care provider already operates a number of homes around the country, including one in Somerset - in Burnham-on-Sea.

In a statement, Somerset Care said: "This proposal is currently with our solicitors, who are testing the viability of Agincare's offer.

"While the proposed purchase of Critchill Court and Sunnymeade by Agincare is being negotiated in good faith by all parties, the outcome is not yet certain.

Somerset Care has said it will provide further updates about the proposed takeover when it is able to.