Garvagh care home to close

News was given to staff and residents on Wednesday morning.

Back in December it was reported that there could be a possible repreive for the home located on the Kilrea Road.

In a statement, Four Seasons Health Care said: “In December we announced that we had received an expression of interest to take over the operation of Garvagh care home as a going concern.

“Consequently, we paused the process of the closure of the home to allow the prospective buyer to progress to an offer.

“In the intervening period proposed sale has not progressed and unfortunately the expression of interest has now been withdrawn.

“As there are no viable options remaining, we have reluctantly re-started the process to close the home.

“As promised, we will ensure that people who chose to remain in the home during this pause don’t lose out in terms of notice period.

“We will work with the Health and Social Care Trust and do everything we can to support residents and their families to transfer to suitable alternative placements.”

The home is expected to close in May.

The statement added: “We would like to retain as many employees as we can within the Four Seasons Group.

“Sales of three other homes are progressing. These are Antrim Care Home, Oakridge Care Home in Ballynahinch and Hamilton Court in Armagh.”

Independent MLA Claire Sugden expressed her disappointment.

“Recently, residents and families were given hope that the home would be bought,” she said.

“This has now been taken away and they are faced with uncertainty once again.

“This to-and-froing is unacceptable.”