HUNDREDS of people are backing plans to redevelop a disused psychiatric hospital on one of Salisbury’s busiest roads.

Almost 800 people have written to the council about proposals to turn The Old Manor in Wilton Road into a retirement living complex.

And the vast majority of the 772 letters are in support of the scheme, which will see the site’s listed buildings restored.

The planning application, which seeks permission to knock down Foxley Green, the porters lodge and single-storey extensions to Finch House, was submitted on October 5.

The plans for the first phase of the scheme involve building 71 assisted living, extra care units with communal facilities, bin stores and landscaping. A new convenience store would also be built, as well as a new entrance off Wilton Road.

The plans are on display in an empty shop opposite TK Maxx in the Cross Keys Shopping Centre.

Kate Greatrix, head of community engagement at developer Quantum, said: “We’re overwhelmed by the positive support for our proposed development from the people of Salisbury.

“The number of people who have a personal interest or link to the former Old Manor hospital is staggering.

“It’s fantastic that so many people care about what’s happening to their city – we’ve talked to hundreds of people during the past 10 months, and will continue to do so during each phase.”

Wiltshire Council archaeologists believe the site could include “extremely rare” and “highly significant”

Stone Age remains, and Quantum has agreed to dig test trenches once the site is cleared.

The developer says it is working with the council to tackle concerns over aspects of the scheme’s design, parking and access arrangements, and whether enough of the accommodation would be affordable.

Salisbury City Council supports the scheme, provided care is taken to minimise the impact on listed buildings, existing trees and air quality.