by Rebecca Hughes

The decision on whether to close a day care centre in Rochester has been delayed while officers consider a new proposal lodged in the 11-hour.

The consultation period on council proposals to close the Balfour Centre, on Pattens Lane, was extended at yesterday’s cabinet meeting to allow council officers time to explore the viability of a proposal submitted by Medway Community Healthcare last Thursday – just hours before the end of an eight-week public consultation.

Speaking at the meeting yesterday, Cllr David Brake, portfolio holder for adult and social care, recommended the extension stating that officers had not yet had time to fully assess the proposal from the independent health and social care service in detail.

He said: “We now need time to consider very carefully this proposal from Medway Community Healthcare and check to see whether it’s a viable option for the people who use the Balfour Centre, for staff and for the council.”

The council announced its plans to close the centre, which supports adults with disabilities, last November following a significant drop in the number of people using the facility.

At the meeting, cabinet members also agreed to sell Nelson Court residential home in Chatham and outsource care in Robert Bean Lodge, Rochester, and Platters Farm Lodge, Rainham, stating the homes were more expensive to run than independent ones.

There has been fierce opposition to the proposals and the politicians were greeted by people waving broken hearts at yesterday's meeting.

Speaking at the meeting Cllr Brake assured residents the move would not cause the closure of the homes.

He added: “We all want to see the homes continue for years to come. This is a sustainable and responsible way to ensure that happens.”

Council officers will now take these decisions forward and involve residents, families, carers and staff over the coming months.