COMPANY bosses today pledged to provide frail pensioners with a new roof over their heads after it was revealed that their present home is to be closed.

Chiefs from Southern Cross Healthcare (SCH) spoke out after leading York councillor Sue Galloway described the closure plans for the firm's Knavesmire Nursing Home, in The Green, Acomb, as "extremely sad".

The home will close its doors in February next year with the loss of about 27 beds.

But managers said residents would be immediately moved into its £3.2 million 80-bed nursing and residential home, Amarna House, in Ouseacres, off Boroughbridge Road, York, which is set for completion early next year.

They also revealed that building work would start in spring next year on their new state-of-the-art home on the former Tenneco site, in Clifton. It is believed the facility will also have an 80-bed capacity.

Coun Galloway, who is City of York Council's social services chief, said she was "deeply disappointed" with the home's owners, particularly as it was close to Christmas.

The Evening Press reported in October that SCH chiefs said they were "very proud" of the Knavesmire home and were "confident it would play an important part in the provision of care services in York".

"This closure is really bad news, not only for the residents and their families but also for the city as a whole," Coun Galloway said.

"I am extremely sad that such a well-regarded community facility in the heart of Acomb is to close, especially as this decision has been taken so close to Christmas."

"Council staff will be meeting with residents, to discuss the options available."

A spokeswoman for Southern Cross said they were closing the home because the building was old and needed modernising.

"We have gone through the proper channels and consultation," she said.

"It is planned that all residents and staff, including the manager, will move to the new Amarna House and we have met with residents and relatives and all are very happy to move to the new facility."

A city council spokeswoman said: "We are disappointed that the owners have decided to close this home as it provides a very valuable service in that part of the city.

"However, they have not set an unreasonable timescale for the closure, and we are working with them to help residents find alternative placements."

Will you, or a member of your family, be affected by the nursing home closure?

If so, phone reporter Matthew Woodcock on 01904 653051 ext 305, or email matthew.woodcock@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 09:43 Saturday, December 03, 2005