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Medway Council agrees to close Old Vicarage children's home in Upnor

Councillors have approved plans to close a children's home.

The Old Vicarage care home in Upnor was previously rated "outstanding" by Ofsted but has recently been subject to council scrutiny in a bid to make savings.

WATCH: Cllr Clive Johnson (Lab) speaks to KMTV about the plans for the Old Vicarage.

A period of consultation was previously held with regards to the plans, in which 72% of respondents voiced their opposition.

At a meeting of the council's cabinet on Tuesday, January 14, members heard how the remaining four residents - all of whom are approaching the age of 18 - are being supported, with pathways agreed to map out their care needs.

The council projects savings of £104,000 for this financial year following the closure.

Cllr Adrian Gulvin (Con), portfolio holder for resources said: "I well remember visiting that facility a little while back and talking to one of the young residents.

"In private I asked her what she really felt about living in the place and I was really taken aback by the reply; she said it was like living in an office.

Cllr Adrian Gulvin
Cllr Adrian Gulvin

"The money that is spent on that could be better spent on more modern, up-to-date facilities."

KentOnline previously reported how around 17 staff face losing their jobs unless they are reassigned to new roles.

It will officially close in on Friday, February 7, subject to a call-in by the children’s, young people overview and scrutiny committee.

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