THE first new homes on the site of a former top hotel are nearing completion.

Ferndown's Dormy hotel closed its doors in 2004 and was the subject of several arson attacks.

Much of the building was destroyed in a fire in 2007 and since then the huge site has been the subject of several planning applications and much debate.

Now architects Williams Lester and owners Pennyfarthing Homes Ltd have announced that planning permission has been secured for a 75-bed care home, 25 detached four and five bedroom homes and 12 affordable units for rent or assisted purchase.

The first of the homes are almost complete and James McNeil of Pennyfarthing said he is delighted with the interesting and varied mix of the architecture.

"With the overall size of The Dormy, we wanted to create an interesting and exclusive development which, although substantial in overall size, was not overbearing on the surrounding area."

He said the aim was to create "very high quality housing in what is an already exclusive residential area and incorporating the numerous mature trees on the site."

The Dormy Hotel was a luxury hotel village, which once attracted a host of stars from the worlds of show business and sport, especially championship golf.

It was approached through its famous white stone pillars and picturesque tree-lined drive and the main buildings were furnished with rich oak panelled lounges and crackling log fires which provided a warm and friendly welcome.

The complex had 114 bedrooms and 25 suites, with green suburban views, all at four-star accommodation. It began as a series of arts and crafts houses, designed by Hubert E Damen in 1926.

Andrew Kenyon, a director at Williams Lester and project architect for the scheme, added: "This has been a resounding success on all fronts. Extensive discussions with the local authority were vital in securing a scheme that won approval from the neighbours who were tired of a deteriorating and derelict site but one which also assured a very positive financial return for the client."