Concerns Raised Over Cheshire East’s Spending on Closed Congleton Care Home
Concerns are mounting over the financial implications of Cheshire East’s ongoing management of three closed care facilities. The local council is under scrutiny, particularly concerning expenses related to the empty buildings that have not been repurposed for social care.
Overview of Closed Care Facilities
The three notable sites in question include:
- Mountview: A care home in Congleton, closed in 2019.
- Bexton Court: A former day care center in Knutsford, closed in 2010.
- Stanley House: Another facility in Knutsford, which closed in 2018.
These buildings have remained unused, leading to mounting maintenance costs. The Conservative group at Cheshire East has raised concerns about the financial transparency regarding these assets.
Financial Concerns
Cllr Janet Clowes, representing Wybunbury, highlighted the issue during a recent council meeting. She remarked on proposals from 2019 aimed at transforming these properties into supported living options for adults with learning difficulties.
The council’s plans were approved by the cabinet and included in the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) in February 2020. The proposals promised a return on investment within five years, along with savings in social care costs.
Maintenance Costs
Despite the council’s assurances, the financial burden of maintaining these empty buildings has raised eyebrows. Bexton Court alone has reportedly cost over £100,000 in maintenance during its 15 years of vacancy. Currently, it incurs about £20,000 annually, according to a freedom of information request.
Cllr Clowes has sought clarification on the total expenditures related to the maintenance and security of these properties since the MTFS approval. She also questioned when a timeline for their future use or disposal would be made available.
Future Plans and Delays
Past promises regarding the redevelopment of these sites have failed to materialize fully. In 2021, there were assertions that Mountview would be redeveloped for mixed housing, including specialized care. However, no significant progress has been seen.
In July of this year, Cheshire East’s council decided to formally dispose of Mountview and enter into a development agreement. Yet, details surrounding this agreement remain undisclosed.
Conclusion
As Cheshire East continues to face scrutiny over its spending on vacant care homes, the push for transparency and effective use of assets remains critical. Community leaders are eager for clarity on future plans to ensure resources are utilized effectively, prioritizing social care needs in the region.
