A care home issued with a closure notice last month has unveiled a change of direction, as it looks to restore its reputation.

Northgate House, in Hellesdon, was given notice to close by Norfolk County Council in August, after being judged inadequate by the Care Quality Commission.

A month on and its owners have lodged a planning application to convert the home into 11 studio flats and a six-bedroom shared living space.

However, the application does not mean an end to care being offered at the site on Links Avenue.

Instead, owner Ziggy Ruhomutally said if the application was successful it would see the company move into offering assisted living - rather than residential care.

He said: 'As a family we do not wish to close or sell the home, so instead we are looking to improve what we offer.

'We have been in the care industry for 31 years, so after that amount of time you don't want to just stop.'

He said the plan is for the 11 studio flats to be assisted living spaces, while two of the six shared rooms would be occupied by live-in carers.

He added: 'The plan is that we will never be without staff in the property - however the aim is also for the most independent style of living possible for the residents.

'I think with what we are hoping to do we have shown we want to change and move forward.'

In March, the home received a damning inspection from the CQC, which raised a number of concerns, including one resident who had lost 14kg in the space of three weeks.

However, Mr Ruhomutally insisted the home has always had support of those who use its care.

He said: 'We are not a bad family and have always put the needs of our residents first - we respond if they are unwell and are continually trying to get them the right care.

'We believe this move will help us be the best we can in future.'

The planning application will be decided by Broadland District Council in due course.