A PLAN to build 120 homes on the former site of Essex County Hospital has received a £1 million cash boost.

The hospital, which close for good in 2018, saw plans for the housing development approved in 2020.

Before building work could begin, archaeologists discovered Roman remains, including at least 19 bread ovens, 70 Roman burials, pottery, jewellery and tools, on the site.

Some of the key finds from the excavations could be viewed in an exhibition at the Roman Circus Centre.

The site will be redeveloped into 120 architect-designed homes by Essex Housing, Essex County Council’s in-house developer.

The development has received £1,119,015 from the Government’s brownfield land release fund, which saw £180 million shared between 41 councils.

Colchester MP Will Quince welcomed the investment and said: “This site was no longer appropriate as a hospital site and the funding released enabled upgrades at Colchester General Hospital.

“The old Essex County Hospital site needs redevelopment, so I welcome this Government investment into Colchester.

“The funding supports local councils to release council-owned brownfield land for housing, by transforming redundant industrial sites, disused car parks and derelict buildings into new places for people to live.

“This fund forms part of our plan to level up the country, ensuring local areas can achieve their full potential, while also protecting the country’s green spaces.”

The hospital opened in 1820, but closed in September 2018, when services moved to Colchester General Hospital.

The hospital was renamed Essex County Hospital in 1907, before playing a vital role in Colchester’s response to both world wars.

In 1964, the hospital unveiled a new radiotherapy suite, with the site eventually becoming synonymous with cancer care, with notable dedication and kindness from the staff onsite.

After many years of vital service to the community, the hospital was no longer considered fit for purpose, with plans made to transfer all of the services offered to the then Colchester General Hospital.

The new properties will be a mix of one to three bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom town houses.

The site’s historic buildings, which include the Grade II listed main hospital, nurses block and kitchen, will be saved.