THE consultation period of a controversial social services proposal to close care homes in Dartford is about to end.

Residents have been given from June 21 to November 1 to share their views on Kent Adult Social Services’ (KASS) plan to close The Limes care home in Brent Lane and replace Manorbrooke residential home in Bevis Close with extra care housing.

According to KCC, thousands of people have contributed to the consultation, sending in emails, letters, petitions and alternate proposals.

Yvette Knight, of James Road, Dartford, collected more than 1,000 signatures on a petition which she presented to KCC on October 14.

Speaking after the meeting, she said: “I hope they realise now the proposal is not a done deal.”

KCC cabinet member for KASS, Graham Gibbens said: “This period of consultation, of listening to what people think and hearing their concerns, has been crucial as we think about the future of services for older people.

“The comments will now be carefully evaluated.

“Each home in the proposal will be the subject of a separate report to be considered when it comes to making a decision in early January.”

MP for Dartford Gareth Johnson joins residents in their fight against the proposals.

He said: “I’m opposed to the closure of Manorbrooke and the Limes and I’ve held several meetings with KCC to express this view.

“I hope the consultation was not a done deal.

“Graham Gibbons who is leading on this for KCC is a decent man but I believe he has got this wrong and I have told him so.”