Lancashire Council Postpones Decision on Care Home Futures
Lancashire County Council has announced it will not proceed with a planned February decision regarding the future of five residential care facilities, following an extensive public consultation that generated over 1,600 responses.
The delay affects facilities in Adlington, Colne, Kirkham, Thornton Cleveleys and Clayton-le-Moors, which collectively accommodate more than 229 residents. The council had been examining options for these services amid concerns about substantial investment needs to address building maintenance issues.
Extended Timeline
Council leader Stephen Atkinson indicated the decision would now be taken during spring months, citing the need to properly evaluate the substantial volume of feedback received during the consultation period.
“Given the significant amount of information gathered, it seems prudent to allow sufficient time for thorough consideration of all data,” Mr Atkinson stated. He acknowledged the extended uncertainty would be difficult for those affected, emphasising the importance of not rushing such a significant decision.
The authority has also initiated new structural assessments of the properties in question.
Family Concerns
Relatives of current residents have expressed mixed reactions to the postponement. Jennie Lawson, whose 77-year-old aunt with dementia resides at Grove House in Adlington, questioned whether the delay represented genuine progress.
“Some people view this as cause for celebration, but I remain unconvinced,” Ms Lawson commented. “A concrete timeline would be helpful. Currently, this simply extends a difficult period for everyone involved.”
Political Response
Opposition councillors have criticised the handling of the review process. Labour’s Kim Snape, representing Chorley Rural East, suggested the council was deferring a difficult decision without providing clarity on timing.
Liberal Democrat councillor David Whipp, leader of Pendle Council, expressed concerns about the impact of ongoing uncertainty on residents and families connected to Favordale care home in his constituency. He called the situation a “tragic mismanagement” affecting vulnerable community members.
Council Position
Mr Atkinson defended the administration’s approach, clarifying that the process had always been consultative in nature. He dismissed suggestions that properties might be demolished for alternative development, stating such plans did not exist.
“Our primary objective remains ensuring the safety, dignity and wellbeing of residents and day centre users, both presently and in future,” he said. “We are committed to making the most informed decision possible for Lancashire’s residents using all available relevant information.”
The five facilities under review are Grove House (Adlington), Favordale (Colne), Milbanke (Kirkham), Thornton House (Thornton Cleveleys) and Woodlands (Clayton-le-Moors). Five associated day centres are also included in the review process.
