A new 83-bed care home replacing a former convent in Deal gets approval, aiming to address local dementia care needs.
Boutique Care Homes bought the convent, previously called Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, in 2023 for £3 million. Dover District Councilors unanimously voted for the project, believing it provides needed dementia care for the community.
One councilor noted many homes do not accept dementia patients, while another said it helped meet a future local need. Planners carefully considered all details.
The care home will have 83 beds, with seven bungalows planned as well. Boutique Care Homes, based in Romford, London, will knock down old buildings to make way for the new center.
The new center will include a bistro, hobby room, family lounge and lawn bowling green. A woodland walk and many new trees are also planned.
Local rules state 990 aged care spots are needed by 2040, and this new home helps meet that need. Councilors think it is a great contribution.
Boutique Care Homes worked with the planning team, changing the design based on feedback. Construction should begin this summer, and the home aims to open in 2027. The new home will create over 80 jobs.
It is a short walk to Deal High Street, allowing residents to easily reach shops and cafes. The center is named Catherine Grove, who founded Deal Orphanage long ago. Sisters later continued her work for many years.
The Sisters chose Boutique Care Homes for the site and moved out after a very long time. Seventy people sent objections to the council, worried about the building’s height, fearing privacy loss and noting traffic concerns. They also wished to preserve the old building.
Council planning officers approved the plan, stating the location was suitable with nearby transport. Kent highways did not object to the project. Boutique Care Homes has three total care homes already.