The former Sunnyside Hospital near Montrose has been sold to a locally-led partnership in a seven-figure deal.
Montrose-based Pert Bruce Construction Ltd and Edinburgh’s FM Group announced the purchase of the site from NHS Tayside and say they are now focused on pressing ahead with plans to create a “development of distinction” at what was once Scotland’s largest psychiatric facility.
Sunnyside closed in 2011 and The Courier recently revealed that NHS Tayside was in the final stage of negotiations over the sale of the 21 hectare site.
Pert-Bruce director Craig Bruce said that the negotiations with NHS were considerable as NHS Tayside were keen to ensure they achieved the best deal in terms of value for money and financially for the site, while securing the long term future of the Class B and C heritage building stock.
“We feel that our strong local ties to the area set us apart from the rival bidders, and demonstrated our desire to create a benefit for the local area and secure local jobs for both Montrose and the wider community; something which was unique to our bid,” added Mr Bruce.
“Sunnyside Estate will be the joint venture company responsible for the transformation of the old hospital site back into a prominent feature within the Hillside and Montrose communities,” he added.
The development will comprise a mixed use of housing, retail, commercial and social housing, with the construction and refurbishment project representing a multi-million pound investment in the local area.
David Stewart, director of Sunnyside Estate, said: “Sunnyside” brings together an idyllic setting, history and a uniqueness seldom found in other sites.
“Our goal is to create a development of distinction that will blend into the mature natural environment and create a legacy for the area, as the loss of the hospital represented a blow to north Angus.
“We hope to bring this back by providing a multi-use site that gives both development and open area to add to the local community.”
Rory Ballantyne, director of Ballantynes who acted on behalf on NHS Tayside in the sale, said: “Ballantynes are delighted to have completed the sale of a very complex and substantial site.
“NHS Tayside are pleased that a local firm have taken on the project and their commitment to the regeneration of Sunnyside Royal Hospital was a key driver in the sale process.
“We look forward to seeing the site transform under Sunnyside Estate.”
Sunnyside Estate now plan to move forward with the current outline plan approved for the site to consult with the local community groups and obtain planning permission to allow construction works to commence.
