Langford House decision near

Press, 15 January 1982, Page 4

Langford House decision near

The future of Langford House may be decided next month.

More than half of the 52 residents at the Sydenham residential home for the aged have moved out since the Canterbury Aged People’s Welfare Council- announced last month that it would close the home on March 31. But there is still a possibility that Langford House may not have to close.

The welfare council’s secretary-manager, Mr J. J. Chadderton, said yesterday that negotiations were still under way with two prospective buyers — a charitable organisation and a private person — who were interested in retaining the building as an old people’s home.

A board meeting has been set for February 10 to consider offers for the Battersea Street property. The board might be in a position to

make some decision then. Mr Chadderton said.

Only about 24 residents are still living at Langford House. Most have moved into other Christchurch homes. Some of the 22 staff have also found new jobs.

“The residents have done a jolly good job in accepting the situation imposed on them by our reluctant decision,” said Mr Chadderton. A number of more modern homes had been available to residents wanting to leave. One woman had seen about five possibilities before she decided.

Increased running costs and the growing number of old people's homes in Christchurch had been reasons for the decision to close.

Proceeds from any sale of the property, which has a capital valuation (1979) of $270,000, would probably go towards other Welfare Council services.