A new luxury care home boasting a cinema and bar in Rayleigh is now open after years of construction.

Pinetree, a 60-bed care home in Rawreth Lane, Rayleigh, was declared open today by Dr Margaret Wilson CBE, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Essex.

The grand opening was also attended by Barchester Healthcare's chief executive officer, Dr Pete Calveley, and general manager, Laura Glyde, with a ribbon cutting event.

Open - New 60-bed care home in RayleighOpen - New 60-bed care home in Rayleigh (Image: Barchester)

The home, which is now welcoming its first residents, has been designed with residents' comfort in mind.

It offers residential support, respite stays, and specialised dementia care, all provided by a team of trained professionals.

It also provides a host of unique facilities including a cinema, television lounges, a spa bath, a hairdressing salon, as well as a sensory room.

Wow - The stunning new luxury care homeWow - The stunning new luxury care home (Image: Barchester)

General manager Ms Glyde said: "We are delighted our home is now open.

"Our residents are at the heart of everything we do at Pinetree, and we look forward to welcoming them and their families, and becoming an active part of the local community.

"We take pride in really getting to know each of our residents to provide tailored care and support, ensuring dignity and choice in every aspect of daily life."

Luxury - One of the relaxing bedroomsLuxury - One of the relaxing bedrooms (Image: Barchester)

The care home aims to provide person-centred care, a dining experience tailored to residents’ tastes and preferences, and a programme of life enrichment activities.

The Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, Dr Wilson CBE added: "I am delighted to be here to open Pinetree care home.

"It is very good to see Barchester investing with such confidence in the future of care in the county – that investment will ensure not only top quality facilities and world-class care, but also jobs, training and a boost to the local economy.

Exciting - Dr Margaret Wilson CBE, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of EssexExciting - Dr Margaret Wilson CBE, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Essex (Image: Barchester)

"It is clear from everyone I have met today how dedicated the Barchester teams are to the people that they care for, and it’s reassuring to know that the people of Rayleigh and beyond will receive a warm welcome at Pinetree, and that their needs will be met with respect and dignity."

The care home, run by Barchester Healthcare, is part of a wider plan for a new residential scheme for hundreds of homes, north of London Road in Rayleigh.