COUNCILLORS launched an attack on proposals that could see a care centre close after 30 years.

They called for a rethink after users and their families pleaded the case for keeping the John Darling Mall centre.

As previously reported the Boyatt Wood facility, which offers accommodation and respite care for physically disabled residents, is under threat after Hampshire County Council launched a consultation on its future.

It says use of the building is falling and it would need £5m refurbishment to bring it up to modern standards.

However, councillors on the Liberal Democrat dominated Eastleigh Borough Council accused the Tory-led county council of not thinking of the effect on residents and that money was the driving factor, describing it as “appalling” and “disgraceful”.

They said it was inappropriate to try and merge care for those with physical disabilities and learning difficulties and people would be forced away from their families and communities to find care.

They also questioned why the council would not use its £450m reserves to save the facility, where a protest against its closure was held in August.

Residents meanwhile claimed the county council had not promoted the facility or invested in it and were making staff redundant before the decision had been made.

The county council says it needs to make £98m of cuts over the next five years, proposing £52m cuts in adult social care.

Paul Lucas, left with spinal injuries after a road crash 40 years ago, has respite care at John Darling Mall and spoke to full council after a motion was put forward expressing concern on the issue asking the county council to think again.

He said the possibility that people suffering with physical disabilities and learning disabilities could share services was “a very very dangerous thought”.

He questioned whether the decision had already been made, claiming staff had already been given or offered redundancy payments.

Leonie Mountney, sister of a resident for 12 years, said she relied on the familiarity of surroundings and carers and said there seemed to be “no effort to promote the use or value of the facility”.

Eastleigh councillor Chris Thomas, who put forward the motion, said other choices for residents were mostly for people with learning difficulties and many had no vacancies.

“These are the most vulnerable people in our society and they have got to pay the price,” he said.

Cllr David Pragnell said: “It’s shameless and heartless. This is a very simple way of hitting those who can shout least.”

Cllr Judith Grajewski (Con) urged further dialogue with the county council and said no-one had mentioned how Hampshire County Council planned to build extra care housing on the site, giving current residents first refusal.

Councillors unanimously supported the motion.

The county council says it consistently maintained the facility to a good standard and its priority was ensuring appropriate choice of respite support.

A decision is due on November 25.