IT HAS been revealed that Launceston's Abbeyfield Duchy House is set to close — as a result of failing demand and cost of repair work needed in the next few years.

A spokesperson for the charity, which provides supported sheltered housing, said: "Abbeyfield is committed to providing high-quality support and sheltered accommodation across the country and in order to maintain this we have recently undertaken a review of all our properties to ensure they meet the needs and wants of the elderly residents we support.

"In looking at Abbeyfield Duchy House and its future, Abbeyfield Launceston and the national Abbeyfield Society, jointly identified a number of key concerns."

A spokesperson added: "Due to falling demand, the house has many rooms which have been empty for a long time. This situation means that the house is currently

occupied by only two

residents meaning that the charity's key mission of alleviating loneliness is not being achieved.

"Unfortunately the cost of the major repairs and improvements needed to the building over the next few years make it difficult to keep the property both

financially viable and

attractive to potential new residents. The hill-top

location of the house also makes access more

difficult."

After careful consideration, Abbeyfield has taken the difficult decision to close this house, and it is anticipated that the closure will take place in the next few months.

The spokesman added: "We understand that this is a difficult time which may cause anxiety with remaining residents and staff which is why we are keen to facilitate open communication by providing them with a named individual to discuss their views.

"We have put in place a comprehensive procedure to make sure that the move-on process for the two remaining residents is as painless as possible under the circumstances. This includes a person

allocated to lead the process of finding new homes and help with costs."