The planning application for 58 new homes on the site of the old Devizes Community Hospital has been submitted.

The official application has been submitted after an outline planning application was produced by landowners NHS Property Services, earlier this year, to redevelop the hospital on New Park Road.

The hospital is set to be replaced by a new £11 million health centre on Marshall Road this December.

The proposed development will see the construction of 58 houses and apartments of between two and three storeys, as well as a commercial unit, green spaces and 71 parking spaces.

The site’s two eastern buildings will be retained and converted while the remainder of the buildings will be demolished and redeveloped.

In their cover letter NHS Property Services said: “Devizes Community Hospital, in its current form, represents an inefficient and unviable use of the site, its redevelopment will provide a sustainable housing development”.

The Wiltshire Councillor for Devizes North Iain Wallis encouraged locals to share their views on the proposal.

He said: “The decision to close Devizes Community Hospital was taken by the NHS many years ago and, whilst I regret the loss of the facility, the building didn't suit modern requirements and change was needed.

“What is important now is that the site is used to enhance and benefit Devizes and that the community has its say on the plans put forward.

“I would encourage everyone to look at the plans online and submit their support or objections to help inform the planning process.

“It is by doing this that we can all help build a sustainable future for Devizes".

In September Devizes Town Council members voiced their support for the plans.

Cllr Andy Geddes said: “I think there was concern the site would be turned into high value housing… but the reality is they’ve put in a nice mix of housing which may not be subsidised affordable housing within the technical definition but is certainly housing for ordinary families, rather than luxury premium homes that they’re trying to screw every ounce of profit from.”

Cllr Judy Rose disagreed, arguing that new housing was not necessary.

She added: “It will be fine and it’s great these people can walk to the town centre so won’t be relying on cars, but we don’t actually need more housing.

“The numbers have been fulfilled up to 2036 already. Anymore is just developers pushing in to make some money.”

Residents can support or object to the plans through the Wiltshire Council planning portal.