Major investment in Stourbridge facility

A six-figure upgrade is under way at Comberton Nursing Home in Stourbridge.

This comes after its purchase by Hawcombe Care in a deal brokered by specialist business property adviser Montane Care.

The home, which provides nursing and residential care for up to 36 residents, including those with dementia, employs 50 staff. Hawcombe Care also owns The Hawthorns care home in Edgbaston, Birmingham, and has confirmed that the Comberton acquisition forms part of its wider buy-and-build expansion strategy across the West Midlands.

Improvements planned this year

Hawcombe Care director Imran Mian said the business is investing around £100,000 on improvements at Comberton over the next year. The works include new equipment and furniture, safety upgrades and a complete redecoration of the building.

“Comberton is a great home with a lot of potential,” Mr Mian said.

“It has a good reputation and occupancy levels, and we are excited about making long-term improvements. Its location fits perfectly with our expansion strategy and we are looking to grow further in the West Midlands as we assess other acquisition opportunities.”

Changing market dynamics

The deal sees Comberton transferred from Astley Care, owned by Jay Patel, which continues to run four homes across the Midlands and Cheshire. Earlier in the summer, Montane Care brokered Astley Care’s sale of Hillcroft Nursing & Residential Home in Wordsley to Gugan Healthcare.

Montane Care, which provides commercial advice on the sale and acquisition of care homes and childcare facilities nationwide, said the Comberton transaction highlights a shift in the sector.

Darren Edwards, healthcare agent at Montane Care, said: “This latest sale represents a growing trend within the care sector, where established operators are choosing to exit the market with strategic support, while newer operators and entrants bring fresh energy and ambition.”

Smooth transition praised

Mr Edwards added that Mr Mian “approached the process with great commitment, clarity and an appreciation for the responsibility that comes with operating a care home of this calibre”.

He said the successful transfer showed how operators could “confidently navigate the complexities of care home acquisition and take over a business that is both operationally sound and positioned for future success”.