MORE than six hundred people have given their views on the future of Minehead’s Old Hospital.

A six day consultation event saw crowds pack into the Day Room at the side of the historic building to view proposals.

These included incorporating the library, information centre, advice bureau and museum along with a performance and exhibition space.

Jenny Lennon-Wood, Chair of the Minehead Development Trust, said many visitors to the event were delighted to see the iconic main building coming back to life.

“It was really encouraging to see the huge number of returned questionnaires.

“It is a significant increase on previous consultations with more expected through the post. I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped set up and run the event so quickly following the purchase of the site.

“The questionnaires are now being analysed and results will be publicised within the next few weeks.”

The MDT was set up in 2008 with the aim of securing the Old Hospital as a community asset. Members are now working to realise the site’s potential with the new owners, Bill Howard, a consultant engineer from St Albans, and Bob Jones, who have set up Minehead Old Town Hall Investment Ltd to deliver the project.

The Old Hospital’s three Grade II listed buildings are situated in the Wellington Square Conservation Area. The main building dates from 1888 and was designed by one of Minehead’s foremost Victorian architects, James Piers St Aubyn.

It was originally used as the Town Hall and Assembly Room. The Old Police Station and the nurses’ accommodation are also listed.