Plans have been approved to to build a new care home in Almondsbury on the same site as one that was ravaged by fire.

The derelict Oaklands house, on Oaklands Drive in Almondsbury, was set on fire in October 2016.

It had previously served as a care home and day centre run by South Gloucestershire Council.

The building has gone unused since the fire, having being rendered unsafe.

Now plans for a new 26-room care home in Almondsbury have been approved, to the delight of councillors.

Keith Burchell, who represents Almondsbury as part of the Severn Ward said: “We are delighted that this development has been approved in Almondsbury, not only restoring an important service, but reviving a home rich with heritage to the community that had been ripped away following the tragic fire three years ago.”

Cllr Matthew Riddle, who represents the same ward, said: “It is a pleasure to have the Council working in such harmony with the care provider in delivering this scheme. We look forward to seeing the care home open its doors soon so that it can be enjoyed by new residents.”

Also welcoming the decision was Cllr Ben Stokes, South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member for adults and public health, who said: “I am pleased that Oaklands has been granted a new lease of life and will continue to help meet the needs of our fastest growing population demographic.

“This scheme goes a long way towards meeting the Council's overall ambitions for developing a broad and sustainable care market in South Gloucestershire.”

Cedar Care Homes had planning permission officially approved with conditions on July 23.

The plans give permission to demolish the existing building, build a 26-bedroom care home and build 15 assisted apartments.

Conditions include assessing the potential contamination caused by the fire and ensuring only emergency vehicles are able to access the site from Oaklands Drive, to reduce the impact on nearby residents.