PLANS are being drawn up for a new 70-bedroom care home at the back of a village pub on York's outskirts.

Octopus Healthcare says it is working in partnership with Punch Taverns to develop 'vacant' land to the rear of the Derwent Arms in Osbaldwick.

A spokesman told The Press that in addition to creating 60 jobs at the home, there would also be 'enhancements' to the village green, improved car parking and new children’s play facilities.

"The public house is to remain operational," he said. "Plans are only in their initial stages and Octopus Healthcare would like to invite members of the local community to comment on the proposals at a forthcoming public consultation event. More details of the event will be publicised in the coming weeks."

York Press:

The Derwent Arms in Osbaldwick

A planning consultant said in an email to Osbaldwick and Dunnington councillor Mark Warters that Octopus - a "leading developer and investor of healthcare premises in the UK"- was working alongside a prospective care home with a view to developing the land to provide a 70 bedroom care home for older people in the local area with heavily dependent nursing and dementia needs.

"There is a substantial local need for high quality care accommodation and the scheme would also deliver a number of important community, housing and economic benefits including the creation of up to 60 new jobs for local people and possible shared facilities for community use," said Adrian Kearley, of AKA Planning.

He said Octopus had recently met City of York Council officers to discuss indicative proposals. "We are aware that this is a sensitive site and are keen to ensure that any design responds positively to the site context and respects the character and appearance of the adjoining conservation area."

He added that he would welcome the opportunity to meet with Cllr Warters to discuss the benefits of the site and potential for development.

Cllr Warters denied the land was vacant, saying it was used for a village gala and by caravan club members. He also said the site was in draft green belt and the village conservation area, and claimed the village green did not need any enhancement.