Sir Keir Starmer has expressed serious concerns following the announcement that eight care homes across Derbyshire face closure after a planned sale to a private provider fell through.
The situation emerged when Derbyshire County Council, currently under Reform UK leadership, confirmed that negotiations to transfer the facilities had collapsed. Council representatives have issued apologies to affected residents and their families, acknowledging the distressing timing of the announcement so close to the festive period.
The issue reached the House of Commons when Amber Valley MP Linsey Farnsworth raised concerns during Prime Minister’s Questions. She highlighted the impact on local families and employees, specifically mentioning Rowthorne care home in her constituency, and called for the council to reverse its decision.
In his response, the Prime Minister emphasised the troubling nature of the closures, particularly given the government’s allocation of £3.7 billion in additional funding for local authorities to support social care provision.
Several MPs representing Derbyshire constituencies have voiced opposition to the closure plans. Jonathan Davies, Labour MP for Mid-Derbyshire, described his reaction as one of deep disappointment, noting that Briar Close House in Borrowash falls within his constituency. He criticised the timing and potential consequences for both residents and staff members.
The eight care homes identified for closure include facilities spread across the county: Briar Close in Borrowash, Castle Court in Swadlincote, The Grange in Eckington, Lacemaker Court in Long Eaton, The Leys in Ashbourne, New Bassett House in Shirebrook, Rowthorne in Swanwick, and Thomas Colledge in Bolsover.
The initial decision to market these properties was taken during the previous Conservative administration in November 2024.
Joss Barnes, the cabinet member responsible for adult care services, stated that the breakdown of the sale was beyond the council’s influence, with no possibility of continuing negotiations. Barnes explained that the authority is reviewing multiple alternatives but emphasised that resident welfare remains the primary concern.
According to Barnes, extending the marketing period for a further 12 to 18 months would create prolonged uncertainty for everyone involved, without guaranteeing a successful outcome. The decision also takes into account ongoing property maintenance and staffing expenses, alongside the council’s broader strategy to focus on specialist dementia care rather than general residential provision.
While council officials cite commercial confidentiality regarding the failed negotiations, sources suggest the prospective buyer concluded the transaction was no longer financially sustainable. This economic consideration appears to be deterring other potential purchasers from expressing interest.
Council representatives are currently contacting residents and families to discuss relocation arrangements. Officials have stated their confidence in securing alternative private sector placements and maintaining their commitment that residents will not face additional charges resulting from the transfers.
The authority’s communication process with affected parties is ongoing, with support being offered to help families navigate the transition.
A separate facility, Ada Belfield in Belper, which is also owned by the county council, continues to be marketed independently and will not be affected by these closure announcements.
The situation continues to develop as council officers work to finalise arrangements for the approximately dozens of residents across the eight facilities.
