PLANS to build a major care home facility in the centre of Okehampton have taken a step forward.

The site for the development of a 60-bed care home at Rondor and Gunn's Yard in North Street was approved in January after a successful appeal by Barnfield Commercial. A developer is now actively being sought for the site.

The development will provide 60 en-suite single bedrooms in a purpose-built two and three storey building, with associated access, parking and staff areas.

The plans to build the care home were rejected by West Devon Borough Council last November on grounds of overdevelopment and highways issues.

The proposal had been recommended for approval by council officers, but committee members went against their advice. Residents had submitted 24 letters of objection to the planning authority.

Paul Reilly, director of health care sector property agent GLP Taylors, said Okehampton needed a care home which was based centrally. 

Mr Reilly described the location as 'fantastic'.

'The new site is great for its residents as it is situated in a quiet, tranquil spot but also close enough to the town.

'The nursing and EMI (elderly and mentally infirm) care the home will provide will be great for the town.'

Mr Reilly said with planning permission granted, a developer was now needed for the site.

'We've done the demographics in the area and we are now looking for a developer to take it on.

'The home is a key development for the town and would offer job opportunities both in its construction and running.'