An unused care home in the South Downs will be demolished and replaced with a new single dwelling, associated buildings and landscaping.

Westbury House Nursing Home near West Meon, will be transformed into a residential building that could be mistaken for something from Bridgerton or Downton Abbey.

The care home closed in 2016, after being rated ‘inadequate’ by the Care Quality Commission and has been left in a derelict state for years. Inspectors had found the provider continuously in breach of regulations and not making necessary improvements to ensure people’s safety and welfare, among other issues.

The plans received a mixture of support and opposition from locals, with concerns around demolishing the house due to its historical significance. The original building was destroyed in a fire in 1904 and although it was rebuilt in the same period, it is not Grade listed.

West Meon Parish Council (WMPC), was more concerned about the proposed lodge located on the north-western corner of the site, with East Meon Parish Council raising similar concerns. WMPC said the lodge would be “contrary” to certain South Downs Local Plan policies and that it would “have a harmful impact on the special qualities of the National Park”.

In contrast, some residents of West Meon sent in a petition in support of the proposal. Expressing how the development could provide potential “ecological, economic and social benefits” to the community.

Cllr Neil Bolton for Upper Meon Valley, added: “The replacement of the derelict nursing home with an impressively designed house, in keeping with the site’s history, will be a welcome site.”

Historic England made no objection and noted how the new property and its landscape would enhance a nearby deserted medieval village and St Nicholas’ Chapel.

The application was granted planning approval on November 19 by the South Downs National Park Authority.