A NEW retirement complex on the site of Salisbury's former bus station has now opened.

Sarum Lodge in Rollestone Street celebrated its grand opening at the weekend.

More than 100 visitors attended a launch event and bosses at Churchill Retirement Living say a third of the 47 apartments have already been reserved.

Caroline Haswell, regional marketing manager, said: “Our properties offer security, peace of mind and independent living, along with community and support.

"Being in a more manageable, low maintenance home can offer a new lease of life for our owners, while ensuring they are close to amenities and surrounded by a new community.”

The bus station closed after 75 years in January 2014.

Salisbury Reds said only a third of its routes began at the site which did not justify its continued operation in the face of increased maintenance costs.

The station opened in 1939 as the headquarters for Wilts and Dorset buses.

Its closure was unpopular with many Salisbury residents.