BANBRIDGE'S shortage of nursing home beds could be a thing of the past if planners give the green light for a new facility on the edge of the town.
A planning application has been lodged for the erection of a nursing home and healthcare facility at Bannview Road. It's believed the new facility would be big enough for around 100 beds.
The applicant is Southern Cross Health Care but it's understo
od one of the Bridgewater Park developers, The Murdock Group, is behind the development.
Banbridge SDLP councillor Seamus Doyle has called on planning chiefs to back plans for the new nursing home.
"This is something Banbridge badly needs and I would urge planners to look positively on this application," said Mr Doyle.
"It is becoming increasingly difficult for senior citizens to get nursing home accommodation in the district.
"I know of a number of people who have made inquiries on behalf of their elderly parents about getting into a nursing home only to find there is no space available.
"These people want to remain in the district but some are finding they have to move away from the area to find accommodation."
Banbridge DUP councillor Jim McElroy has also given his backing to the planned development.
"This would be a great asset for Banbridge, it is certainly something which is badly needed in the area," said Mr McElroy.
"And Southern Cross Health Care are a first class company who run some of the best nursing homes in England.
"The developers have carried out a lot of research into this and I hope planners will look favourably on the application."
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