PLANS to convert an old hospital into a nursing home, Alzheimer's unit and flats for the elderly will create more than 100 jobs.

Richmondshire District Council has approved a proposal to redevelop Scorton hospital - a move that will create more than 130 jobs.

The application was put forward by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God and Bowood Care.

Councillor Michael Heseltine, ward member for Scorton, said the decision would be welcomed by the community.

He said: "This application has three great benefits. It provides much needed care, rescues the site and the old buildings and it creates jobs."

The main building will be converted into 57 sheltered apartments, while other buildings including the boiler room and operating theatre will be demolished to make way for a 60-bed Alzheimer's unit and nursing home.

Council officers will now work with architects to finalise the details of the application, such as the design of the extension and the landscaping of the site