A DERELICT site is to be landscaped as part of a major restoration project at Sir William Turner's Hospital in Kirkleatham.

The 300-year-old Grade I listed almshouses are at the centre of a £1.6m restoration scheme in which half a hect-are of adjacent derelict land is to be reclaimed as parkland with water features for use by the local community.

During the landscaping, an existing stream is to be partially channelled and the remainder made into a water feature, while woodland will be managed and walks laid out. The project is expected to cost about £24,000.

The complex scheme at the almshouses, which provide sheltered accommodation for the elderly, will involve considerable extra expense because of their historic and architectural importance.

Architect John Wade explained: "A standard replacement door might cost £50. We must provide joiner-made replicas of the original doors at about £250 each and there are more than 80 doors."

Companies wishing to be associated with the project should contact trustee Peter Sotheran on (01642) 490401