Residents and families have expressed their joy and relief after two councils abandoned plans to close three care homes.

Private buyers are to be sought for Claremont House in Heckmondwike and Castle Grange in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, and Willows Edge in Newbury, West Berkshire, following public consultations.

Councillor Cathy Scott, leader of Kirklees Council, said: “We have always argued that social care needs a long term solution rather than short term, last minute, funding announcements that make planning very difficult.  Despite this, we have always said that we would prioritise local people who need our help and support most within a very difficult financial position. By continuing to run the two care homes, whilst exploring alternatives to them being operated by the council we believe we are staying true to that promise.”

A spokesperson for West Berkshire Council said a private buyer would be sought for Willows Edge along with the two other care homes run by the local authority.

The spokesperson said: “Making changes to the way in which we deliver services is not something we do lightly, however, in this case we feel that seeking an alternative provider is the best option in this case because it is the least disruptive approach to those receiving care.”

The council warned closure would be back on the table, however, if a new buyer was not found.

News of the reprieve for all three care homes was greeted with joy and relief by care home residents and their families.

A spokesperson for the Save Our Kirklees Dementia Care Homes Campaign said: “We are relieved that Kirklees has listened to us and after reviewing all the evidence received as part of the consultation has taken the correct decision.

“As families we can now use the precious time we have left with our loved ones as we should have been doing for the past five months.”