Peterborough City Council is arranging a four-week public consultation beginning tomorrow, Friday 9 April 2010, on plans for the redevelopment of four parcels of land currently occupied by Peterborough District Hospital in the Thorpe Road area of Peterborough.

A total of 10 hectares (25 acres) will become available when remaining medical services are transferred to the new Peterborough City Hospital at Bretton Gate by the end of 2011.

City council planning officers have developed initial proposals in partnership with property specialists from King Sturge.

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The proposals suggest the sites could accommodate between 350 and 550 homes, giving a mix of family houses and apartments, plus a convenience shop and other small retail units. Community and ancillary facilities could also be included.

Under present planning guidelines, 30% of new homes would be provided at 'affordable' costs and 20% would be suitable for adaptation to changing needs under 'lifetime' standards.

The outline scheme suggests retaining historic buildings – such as The Gables and the core part of the Memorial Hospital – and improving pedestrian and cycle routes. Existing trees that contribute to the area’s character would also be retained.

The four land parcels included in the proposals are: the main district hospital and Memorial Hospital site; the existing maternity unit; medical staff accommodation accessed from Holdich Street; and a car park area off Alderman's Drive.

Once public comments have been considered the proposals will be submitted to the city council's cabinet, possibly in mid-June.

(CD/GK)