Wayfarers care home in Sandwich will be sold as a going concern, KentOnline can confirm.

The final decision was made by cabinet member for adult social care and public health Graham Gibbens last week, following a Kent County Council committee meeting on January 13.

The sale will take place within nine to 12 months under delegated authority.

A KCC spokeswoman said: “Wayfarers will continue to operate as it does currently for the next nine months to one year while KCC packages the home to sell as a going concern.

“KCC will ensure the new provider continues to operate the service as a care home and there is protection for current residents.”

The privatisation faces strong opposition from residents and community groups including the Friends of Wayfarers.

Friends chairman Dick Perry said: “I’m dismayed KCC should decide that this is not a responsibilty they should accept. They are elected to serve but they are not serving in a proper way.

“Wayfarers is so precious to Sandwich and the surrounding villages.

“There has been quite a lot of comments that there is a lack of support for the elderly who cannot look after themselves.

“They need to find a place to live but there are none available.

“Once KCC has lost control there is no way to stop the new owner from selling the site and changing it.”

Mr Perry is unsure if many providers will be interested in the home because it is small.

He added: “All we can do is try our hardest to go on supporting Wayfarers and offer as much support as possible to staff.”

Sandwich mayor Cllr Paul Graeme said: “It’s just disappointing.

“We need to make sure that it has conditions in the sale agreed that it will remain as a home for at least a period of five to 10 years.”