Whitstable-based Superior Healthcare has unveiled plans to turn a former garden centre into a specialist care facility.
Under the proposals Preston Garden Centre and cafe near Canterbury would be transformed into a multi-million-pound purpose-built facility offering residential accommodation and a community hub.
The two-acre site was already on the market through agent, Christie & Co, with a guide price of £1.45m.
No buyer emerged before it was purchased by Superior Healthcare, which will be seeking permission for a change of use.
The provider specialises in supporting children and adults with complex needs, including those recovering from brain and spinal injuries or living with severely-debilitating conditions.
Treatment can be self-funded or paid for through the NHS.
For Superior Healthcare, it would be its first dedicated residential facility, with staff having worked with patients and families in their own homes for several years.
The location is particularly poignant for Superior Healthcare boss, Stewart Thorp, whose brother Alex suffered a catastrophic brain injury after being knocked off his bicycle in nearby Preston Hill in 2001, aged 11.
“The challenges we faced during Alex’s rehabilitation highlighted the need for a specialist complex care provider that could successfully fit into family life,” said Thorp.
“In recent years, the care sector has evolved to help people with significant needs to live independently in their own homes rather than in hospitals or residential facilities.
“However, we also see too many people, particularly young people, stuck in the system, often in poor-quality accommodation and living in isolation with limited social outlets.
“Our goal is to create a welcoming space for the whole community, where inclusivity, connection, and care come together.”
The Preston site has already been granted planning permission for new homes.
Working with specialist architects, Superior Healthcare aims to amend the existing permission to build high-quality, purpose-built bungalow-style properties.
They will accommodate up to 30 residents, including young adults, living with lifelong disabilities or life-changing injuries.
A major element of the project will be the creation of a community hub, using the existing buildings. This will feature extended gardens and sensory spaces.
Thorp said they were currently putting together a masterplan for the site and expect to submit a formal planning application in March or April next year.