HAMPSHIRE County Council has confirmed it will close its two residential respite homes – Merrydale in Winchester and Sunbeams in Aldershot.

The council claimed it will still be able to commission an equivalent residential respite service without incurring the year-on-year maintenance and operating costs associated with keeping the homes open.

The authority says it will invest in providing a wider choice of options – offering families greater variety and flexibility in the type of respite support available to them.

Keith Mans, the council’s executive member for children’s services, said: “Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who has provided us with their views on the proposals to close the two homes.

“Please be assured I have given the outcome of the public consultation thorough consideration.

“I believe the children and families needing respite care should receive the best possible support we can offer, within the funding available.

“There are substantial costs associated with keeping these buildings and facilities up to standard and fit for purpose, and it is my view this money can be put to better use.”