A new specialist and residential home has opened following a multi-million pound takeover deal and they’ve now welcomed new visitors at a special event.

Orbis Abbey Roase in Tewkesbury welcomed visitors by local residents, healthcare professionals and dignitaries including the Mayor of Tewkesbury Borough.

Prospective and existing families supported by Orbis Education and Care were also invited to view the results of an extensive refurbishment scheme transforming the former children’s home into a state-of-the-art facility.

Orbis Abbey Road will now educate and home 30 children who have complex needs associated with autism and is set to create over 300 jobs when full.

Mike Currier, CEO at Orbis Education and Care, said: “Our vision for Orbis Abbey Rose as a regional centre for excellence in autism support has finally been realised, and we are delighted to be sharing the results at long last with the local community.

“It has been important for us to establish relationships not just with Gloucestershire and the neighbouring authorities, but with residents in the surrounding community that we look forward to continue working with in order to bring this vision to fruition in its entirety.”

The new home is located on a 17-acre site and formerly known as Southwick Park, the school and residential home has been given new life after it closed under the Cambian Group in April 2018.

Mr Currier said: “Orbis Abbey Road has some wonderful facilities and even a battlefield from the War of the Roses within its gardens – hence the name Abbey Rose – as well as extensive grounds and a sports hall, among other things.

“We are therefore looking forward to bringing all that we’ve learned in Wales to England for the benefit of families and employees here in Gloucestershire, and are excited to finally be inviting new residents, students and staff alike in to enjoy this wonderful activity too.”