Kirklees care homes saved from closure
Campaigners say two council-run care homes in Kirklees at risk of closure to save on costs will remain open
Two care homes run by cash-strapped Kirklees Council will remain open, council leaders have said.
The council looked at shutting Castle Grange in Huddersfield and Claremont House in Heckmondwike, both of which look after people with dementia.
Under the plans, residents would have been moved to new homes.
But families had threatened legal action, and the council has reversed the decision following a 12-week consultation.
They will now look to transfer the homes to the independent sector.
Kirklees Council leader Cathy Scott said: "We have always argued that social care needs a long term solution rather than short term, last minute, funding announcements that make planning very difficult.
Despite this, we have always said that we would prioritise local people who need our help and support most within a very difficult financial position.
"By continuing to run the two care homes, whilst exploring alternatives to them being operated by the council we believe we are staying true to that promise.”
The council still needs to save more thna £47m in next year's budget, with proposals due to be unveiled on February 5th.
A campaign group said: "We are relieved that Kirklees has listened to us and after reviewing all the evidence received as part of the consultation taken the correct decision.
"As families we can now use the precious time we have left with our loved ones as we should have been doing for the past 5 months."