Blackwater Mill, a former care home near Newport that was shut down following serious failings in care standards, has been sold to a family-run group who have plans to reopen the site.
Blackwater Mill was for many years one of the largest care homes on the Isle of Wight, registered for 60 residents with en-suite bedrooms across 3 floors, alongside lounges, a dining room and conservatory. Set in more than 3 acres of grounds, the property also featured mature gardens and a pond that was once much enjoyed by those living there.
The home was closed after a series of damning inspection reports highlighted poor standards of care, serious management failings and safeguarding concerns. These negative findings ultimately led to the home losing its registration and residents being moved elsewhere. The site has since stood empty and has been the subject of repeated public attention and scrutiny.
Following a confidential sales process, the property has now been purchased by a subsidiary of English Oak Care Homes – a family-run group with 4 care homes in Hampshire. The company says it will fully refurbish and modernise the building with the aim of reopening it as a care facility for Isle of Wight residents.
Stephen Geach, Chairman of English Oak Care Homes, has said:
“Blackwater Mill is a beautiful site with enormous potential. We look forward to breathing new life into the building and creating a warm, welcoming environment for residents and staff alike.
“English Oak is a progressive family-run business, and the addition of this care home to our company demonstrates our desire to grow the business and improve elderly care provision.”
Charles Phillips, Director – Care at Christie & Co, has said:
“Having sold Blackwater Mill to the outgoing owner in 2008, I was delighted to be asked to assist them with a sale. We undertook a comprehensive marketing campaign and were very pleased to have completed the sale to English Oak.
“We are very confident that, with their excellent knowledge of the local care market, they will be extremely successful. We look forward to visiting the home once all the work has been completed. The sale of this property demonstrates that there is great demand for both trading and closed care homes throughout the South.”
The property was sold for an undisclosed price.
