The firm behind the £25 million redevelopment of the old Newton Abbot Hospital has said the project had been 'very challenging' but that the first properties could be occupied by next summer.

Keyworker Homes (Newton Abbot) Ltd has already tackled much of the demolition and infrastructure work and this week completed the purchase of the East Street site.

The £4.25 million it paid for the 8.5 acre plot will be invested by NHS Devon in healthcare services.

Construction work is now set to begin on a state-of-the-art GP practice for Albany Surgery, a Sainsbury's convenience store, pharmacy, retail and commercial space, 48 retirement apartments, 53 houses and an extra care facility for the elderly.