Nursing home could close

West Sussex County Council will hold a consultation into the possible closure of Burrscrofte nursing home, in Pond Road, Shoreham.

The home has recently been used to rehabilitate elderly people following surgery so that their hospital beds can be released for other patients.

Patients stay for up to six weeks until they are ready to return home.

Councillors say the care home, although providing an invaluable service, may have to close as County Hall struggles with new EU regulations and tightening finances.

Pat Arculus, cabinet member for adult services, said: "If more people choose to stay in their own homes, we have to balance their needs with those of people in care homes, within a restrictive budget.

"There isn't enough money being put in for elderly people, especially in the south, where we have so many. The government isn't taking that into account.

"The long-term future of Burrscrofte was never to stay open, because a new home is due to be built on the old Southlands site."

Five permanent residents would be looking for a new home if the Burrscrofte facility closes, although it is capable of accommodating 25 people. A new, privately run facility to be built next to Southlands Hospital will have room for 60 beds, but will not be up and running until 2008.

Mrs Arculus said: "There will be no reduction in respite or remedial care, whether it's in Burrscrofte or not.

"Whatever happens, my main concern is not to frighten elderly people, but the building is not fit for purpose. The rooms are small and many aren't en suite. Although they are providing an invaluable service, the home is not what you would expect in the 21st century."