Lincolnshire leaders plan £1m extension for respite centres after backlash
Families could see two respite centres stay open for almost another year as Lincolnshire County Council responds to criticism over plans to close them.
Council leaders are being asked to approve spending just over £1 million to extend the contract for Swallow Lodge in North Hykeham and Cedar House in Spalding until the end of July 2027.
The move follows a strong backlash from families and service users after proposals to close the centres and instead support people through alternative care arrangements.
Council bosses say no final decision has been made and insist the plans are not about saving money, but about creating a service that better meets the needs of disabled adults and their families.
Martin Samuels, the council's executive director of adult care and community wellbeing, said the original proposals were based on feedback suggesting the current model did not work for everyone.
He said the extra time would allow for a "genuine consultation", adding: "All of the options are on the table."
The proposed 11-month extension would cost £1,013,514 and is due to be considered by the council's executive next Tuesday.
But some councillors say the delay is creating more uncertainty. Conservative councillor Martin Hill warned carers and families are now facing another year without knowing what the long-term future of the centres will be.
A public consultation on the proposals remains open until 7 September.