Redevelopment of derelict former hospital site moves a step closer

Plans to redevelop a derelict former hospital site could move a step closer this week.

[ClickPress, Thu Mar 18 2010] Plans to redevelop a derelict former hospital site could move a step closer this week.

Local company Rochmills is expected to complete a legal agreement with the West Northamptonshire Devleopment Corporation (WNDC) which will mean planning permission being granted to redevelop the former St Edmunds Hospital site.

The scheme will include the refurbishment and re-use of some of the existing buildings, including the conversion of the Grade II Listed former Northampton Workhouse building into office accommodation for small businesses. The rear of the site will include a 110-bedroom retirement village, together with shops and facilities for residents.

The development has been a result of close partnership working between the developer, WNDC, and Northampton Borough Council. NBC formally approved the separate listed building application last week.

The four-acre town centre site has been derelict since the hospital closed in 1998 and its condition deteriorated significantly in that time.

WNDC Chief Executive Peter Mawson said: “The redevelopment of this site will bring significant regeneration benefits to the town, create new jobs, as well as providing much needed care facilities.”

The first phase of the development, a new retail building fronting onto Wellingborough Road, will start in May.