A DERELICT motel in Soham that became a hotspot for anti-social behaviour has been transformed into a brand new care home.

The former Soham Bypass Motel, in Qua Fen Common, was closed for upgrades in 2008 and subsequently suffered from vandalism and break-ins in the following years as the building remained empty.

Four years on however, and the building now boasts 26 rooms, all with en suite wet rooms, with kitchen, day rooms and dining areas, with plans for a further 30 rooms in the coming years as further phases of building work are completed.

The home, which specialises in nursing care for the elderly, is expected to welcome its first residents in the coming weeks, and inquiries as to availability are still welcome.

Director Sam Lidford, said: “When we took on the building it had no running water and no electricity, it has been a long, hard process but we are very happy and very proud of what we have been able to achieve.

“Everyone has been very helpful and there have been a lot of people involved along the way. We hope that the local community will continue to support us as we grow.

“We believe that community relationships will be really important and would love to see groups holding meetings at Soham Lodge again, with our residents getting involved. It is great to see it up and running and we are looking forward to our residents arriving.”

Ms Lidford added that 20 staff had been taken on with more expected to be recruited as more residents move in.