Proposals to build a £5 million nursing home in Colwyn Bay have been given the green light, according to the Daily Post North Wales.

The new 54 bedroom home will provide a massive boost to employment in Wales, generating vacancies in a range of roles such as nurse manager jobs.

Work is scheduled to start on site later this month, and expected to complete in May 2011.

It has a focus on sustainability, using a highly insulated timber frame on a concrete basement.

Senior partner Nick Colwyn-Foulkes said: “This highly sustainable development in the conservation area of the Pwllycrochan estate in Colwyn Bay provides a perfect location combined with a building achieving a minimum of ‘very good’ BREEAM certification. The design incorporates a high level of insulation, air tightness and a heat recovery system to reduce energy costs."

The news comes after a protest in Wales has been announced, to fight against the closure of six council-run care homes in Carmarthenshire.

Campaigners were unhappy with plans to close the six care homes, amounting to 175 beds and 150 jobs. 

Bruce McLernon, director of social care, health and housing, said: “No decisions have yet been taken. A politically-balanced task and finish group is currently investigating the proposals.”

Chris Jones’ father is cared for in Cartref Tawelan. Mr Jones said: “The rationale for the closures seems to be that people want to be cared for in their own homes and live independently, but for a large percentage of people that simply isn’t an option and they need round-the-clock care. It is simply a cost-cutting exercise at the expense of the elderly people.”