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On March 17, Abbeyfield met with residents and families at Ivy House and The Old Vicarage in Wellington to “inform them of our intention to keep the two homes open”. The level of investment required in the homes remains significant, Abbeyfield said, adding, however, that “in the last 18 months two key factors have changed”. READ MORE: Ivy House and The Old Vicarage in Wellington set to close “Firstly, we are in a stronger financial position than before because of the tough decisions we took, and secondly the very positive move by Homes England reviewing their guidance on the use of recycled capital grants to allow investment in existing properties.
“These positive changes have put us in a better position to apply to access funding to carry out the essential investment needed to secure the long-term viability of both properties,” a spokesperson said. “While the decision has brought relief to residents and staff, we fully understand the frustration and concerns they have felt throughout the process. “We deeply regret the uncertainty caused during this time and have apologised to residents and staff.
“We now have the opportunity to work closely with residents, staff and key stakeholders over the coming weeks to ensure Ivy House and The Old Vicarage continue to thrive in their communities,” the spokesperson added. Wellington's MP, Gideon Amos, said: “This is great news – my call to save these schemes was one of many and I’d like to thank Brian Standring and all the other residents, along with the local Wellington community and the town council, who have spoken with one voice on the need to keep these vital housing schemes for local residents. “It’s a shame the disruption was caused in the first place, but I’d like to extend a welcome of this decision to Abbeyfield who, along with residents, have engaged constructively – something I saw for myself since the very early meetings with them.
“There are, of course, more steps yet to take before this is confirmed so I will continue to do what I can to stand up for the residents and for the Wellington community.”.
