Queensmead Site Recommended for Sale
As reported in the Bournemouth Echo and by Dorset Live on Facebook, the Queensmead site on Bronte Ave, Christchurch, BH23 2NP, has been recommended for sale.
In 2023, BCP Council submitted (and later withdrew) controversial plans to turn the 40-bed care home site into a 20-bed hostel for homeless people.
The recommendation for sale was made at BCP Council's Cabinet Meeting of Wednesday 4th March 2026.
The following is taken from the attached Asset Disposals, presented to the Cabinet:
Queensmead Care Home, Christchurch
- 11. Queensmead is a former 40-bed care home constructed in the 1970s. The accommodation is now outdated and does not align with contemporary standards or expectations for modern care provision.
- 12. The property was previously leased to Care South. Following significant storm damage in 2022, residents were relocated to alternative accommodation, after which Care South formally surrendered its lease.
- 13. While long-term strategic options for the site have been reviewed, a range of interim or ‘meanwhile’ uses were also explored. However, due to the building’s configuration, condition, and associated viability and planning constraints, none of these options proved feasible.
- 14. As a result, the property remains vacant and unoccupied, incurring ongoing security and holding costs. A clear course of action is therefore required.
- 15. It has been concluded that there are no viable operational uses for the asset, and it was declared surplus at Corporate Property Group on 12 January 2026. Accordingly, disposal of the property on the open market is recommended, to achieve best consideration.
- 16. The asset was taken to Corporate Management Board on 19 January 2026 and subsequently the Cross-Party Strategic Asset Disposal Working Group agreed to the disposal on the 12 February 2026.
Also attached is Page 2 of BCP Council's Asset Information for reference.
Published: 7th March 2026