OVER 100 jobs are set to be created in Warwick after developers won their planning appeal to build a state-of-the-art care home.
In May last year, Warwick District Council’s planning committee denied permission for an £6.5 million development in Tournament Fields business park, with Cllr Bob Dhillon likening the plans to “Colditz”.
But after the applicants, The Berkley Care Group, appealed to the secretary of state the decision was overturned and full planning consent given.
Managing director of the Berkley Care Group Seamus Halton said: “We are delighted to announce that we have received full planning consent for a 90 bed care facility at Tournament Fields.
“Our care facilities are built to an exceptionally high standard in conjunction with our construction partner Lawrence Baker Ltd.
“What makes our homes different are the unique facilities that we incorporate into each one. We have been looking in the Warwick area for some time and are delighted that this home will join our family of homes at Burcot, Oxfordshire, Chingford and Buckingham. Luxury living and exceptional care are what we are all about.”
The facility will include a cinema, bistro and bar, library, three restaurants and a spa, and Mr Halton was keen to point out that it will not just be for private use.
“Our care home will offer all these facilities and services to private fee payers and to social service funded clients,” he added.
The three-storey building will offer care to dementia sufferers and people who have sustained brain injuries and developers have previously said they would spend up to £800,000 a year on locally sourced supplies and services.
Cllr John Holland (Lab, Warwick West) said: “I’m pleased they have won their appeal. I was surprised it was turned down in the first place. A boost to the local economy like this is always welcome. With the advances in medicine people need care homes for the future. The important thing from the point of view of the people who need care is that, although many would rather stay in their homes as long as possible, that isn’t always possible and the need for care homes will keep on increasing.”
Construction is due to begin in June, and developers hope it will be open to residents by June 2013.
