Devonshire Homes will develop both the former Belmont Hospital and the Tiverton and District Hospital, which were acquired by English Partnerships in 2005 as part of the nationwide Hospital Sites Programme.

While formal planning approval is yet to be sought, it is likely that 77 homes will be built within and around the former hospital buildings. Some of these homes will be affordable, including apartments and houses.

The 1.4ha development will also include communal areas, parking and gardens.

The former Tiverton and District Hospital site, which contains the Grade 2 listed former nurses home, is located within the town centre and in the Tiverton Conservation Area. Plans are yet to be developed, however Devonshire Homes and English Partnerships will invite comments and involvement from the local community. Given the location it is likely that a mix of residential, employment and retail uses will be developed.

David Warburton, area director for English Partnerships in the South West said: "Devonshire Homes was selected as the preferred development partner on the basis of their high quality proposals, their approach and their commitment to continuing the engagement with residents and businesses. They have proposed a scheme that will deliver a range of affordable and environmentally friendly homes and respond to the historic nature of the sites."