HEALTH giant BUPA is on the defensive today after it told 34 elderly people in York they must find a new place to live.

Families of residents at Burton Croft Residential Home, in Burton Stone Lane, are said to be furious after BUPA announced it is to close the home.

Just days after extra Budget cash for health gave fresh hope to the region's care sector, news of a new closure comes as a crushing blow.

In a letter given to residents, relatives and staff, BUPA says its decision was made "following a detailed review of our portfolio".

Burton Croft is just the latest casualty of a growing care home crisis. Expected to close in late July, it follows that of more than half-a-dozen in York and North Yorkshire, including Blair Atholl, in Haxby, Dower House, in Escrick, and York Rise, in York.

In the letter, BUPA management write: "The home requires extensive capital expenditure simply in order to meet the Government's required standards for care homes in 2002.

"This home, even with substantial capital expenditure to refurbish it, will still fall short of the expectations and needs of residents.

"Whilst the standard of care provided is of the utmost quality, we see no alternative other than to cease operations at the site."

BUPA has promised to assist residents and families in finding "appropriate accommodation".

Bob MacLean, BUPA regional operations director, said: "The home is an old property that was not designed for its current use and no longer provides the required physical environment in which to care for vulnerable people.

"BUPA is in contact with all residents, their relatives and staff members to ensure a satisfactory resolution for all concerned.

"All residents have been offered the option of moving to another BUPA care home and BUPA will attempt to find employment opportunities for all members of staff."

But news of the closure will devastate families of residents, who must find their loved ones a new home.

One couple, who did not wish to be named, said they were disappointed, rather than angry, with BUPA.

"They said they will making every effort to find residents a new home.

"But this news has come like a bolt out of the blue."

A City of York Council spokesman said: "We will be meeting with BUPA later this week to discuss moving residents out of the home and into alternative accommodation.

"We will be working closely with staff at the home over the coming weeks."

Meanwhile, managers at another threatened care home in East Yorkshire have moved to quell rumours that it will imminently close.

Ashburnholme, in Stamford Bridge, up for sale but will not shut its doors in the near future. The home currently cares for 11 elderly people.

A home spokesman said: "The home is on the market for sale as a residential care home but an announcement has not been made to close."

Updated: 08:56 Tuesday, April 23, 2002