A NEW community room has opened at the Sir William Turner's Hospital cottages in Kirkleatham.

The facility, opened by the Bishop of Whitby, the Right Reverend Robert Ladds, is part of a scheme to refurbish the cottages by upgrading the 17th Century building to ensure that it meets modern housing standards.

The renovation of the community room cost £85,000 and will be used by residents to host social evenings. It will also be available for community groups in the Kirkleatham area.

The official opening of the room was held 325 years to the day since the opening by Sir William Turner of the original almhouses on the site.

Tees Valley Housing Group worked in partnership with Bowey construction and with the trustees of the hospital on the project.

Peter Sotheran, chairman of the trustees at the hospital, said: "The community room is a very important facility, which enables residents to maintain as much of their independence as possible.

"The new community room will be a focal point for all of the residents of Sir William Turner's, and I am sure that many social events will take place in the revamped facility."

The Grade One listed hospital building is also being refurbished to create 25 self-contained flats with warden accommodation, a lounge, laundry and a guest-room.

The £1.7m scheme should be completed by spring.