A PRISON, strip club, nuclear power station and even some sensible suggestions have been made for the redevelopment of an old hospital in Bridgwater.
Since it was announced the former Bridgwater Community Hospital has been put on the market for a cool £2.6m, social media has had its say.
Dozens of the town’s residents have had their say on what they would like to see open at the town centre site, despite planning permission being already in place for a 100-bed hotel, a restaurant and a nursery.
Many have spoken of the need for a children’s play centre, somewhere parents can take children to let off steam, or even a youth club with a café.
A swimming pool has also been suggested for the site, while one claimed it could be the ideal location for HMP Bridgwater or its very own Spearmint Rhino gentlemen’s club.
However, many have discussed the need for it to be turned into accommodation for those who need it.
One person said, however: “I can't see the purpose of another YMCA-type building less than 100 yards from the existing one.
“It would be better to turn it into residential sheltered accommodation for the elderly, move those less able into a central accommodation, and free up the homes that are being occupied by the less able and make those available for more abled families.”
In response, the former Labour headquarter in Dampiet Street was suggested as a centre for the homeless.
The person said: “The old labour headquarters in Dampiet Street is empty - ideal for a Homeless shelter, this wonderful building will make a fabulous exclusive hotel! Creating jobs for the local community.
Other suggested something for the younger generation. “There’s only so many times feeding the ducks and going to the park can entertain! Maybe a swimming pool,” the woman said.
NHS Property Services sold the freehold of the site in January 2017 to a local businessman who subsequently secured planning permission on the two-acre site for a hotel, a children’s day nursery, a restaurant and health club.
Andrew Maynard, partner at Alder King’s Taunton office, said: “This is a highly attractive regeneration proposition 400m from the town centre coming back to the market with the added benefit of planning permission.”
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