Council chiefs have defended a decision to close down a Dewsbury care home.

More than 30 residents at Oxford Grange in Oxford Road have been moved to new homes after “significant concerns” were raised by inspectors.

A team from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) carried out a routine inspection in early May and “feedback” was given to the home’s management.

When the home was re-inspected towards the end of the month further concerns were raised.

The CQC inspectors found a number of areas that needed improvement but no enforcement action was ordered at that stage.

Kirklees Council stepped in and the home was closed on Friday with 37 staff put at risk of redundancy.

The home’s owner Mr Surinder Khurana, of Northfields Care Homes Ltd, said he could not say whether the home would re-open.

Staff set to lose their jobs were left shocked and angry.

In a statement Kirklees Council said: “Care Quality Commission inspectors visited Oxford Grange, an independent care home in Dewsbury. Serious failings were identified which presented a significant risk to the safety of residents.

“CQC are considering the need for further enforcement action and will report on any action they take in due course.

“Although the care home is not owned by the council, we have a responsibility that we take very seriously, to ensure that people get the care and support they need and deserve.

The care needs of all residents remain our highest priority. We have worked closely with residents and families to urgently identify alternative suitable care home placements, that fully meet people’s needs, promote their well being and ensure they receive the right care and support. There are no longer any residents living at Oxford Grange.”

A spokesman for the CQC said the inspection report had not yet been published and no further details could be disclosed.