AHEAD OF SCHEDULE

On a recent visit to the site of the new 5 million home, which will create 60 permanent jobs and make 80 care beds available, local politicians praised the on-going work.

Upper Bann MLA David Simpson, Banbridge District Council chairman Jim McElroy and healthcare sub-committee member Joan Baird said they were all impressed by the development.

Welcoming the visitors to the site, Brian Henning Chief Executive of the Murdock Property Group said, "This is an important development for the town and the district.

Sharon Butler, managing director of Priory Care Homes, said, "Things are really beginning to take shape now and this new home will really provide State of the Art care facilities for residents needing nursing or dementia nursing care.

"We will start the recruitment processes in early September with a view to accepting residents before the end of the year."

The new home will provide care in single, en-suite accommodation finished to the highest standard. There will also be a choice of lounges and dining areas and a secure, enclosed landscaped garden.

All residents will have access to carefully planned activities and a wide range of professionals including a hairdresser, chiropodist, optician and GP.

Mr Simpson said, "This is a terrific project and I welcome the Priory Group to Banbridge and thank them for their investment and their commitment to the area.

"I also want to thank The Murdock Property Group for their continued commitment to Banbridge and the local community."

Mr McElroy said, "This new home is badly needed and will be very well received by the community. The 60 new jobs will be very welcome and many local families will be pleased to see them. I congratulate Brian Henning and his team at Murdocks, for the excellent job they have done in bringing the project to Banbridge and delivering it so far ahead of schedule."