The next reincarnation in the long history of the former Mundesley Hospital looks set to be several weeks off, although a deal is still progressing according to the sales agents.

The next reincarnation in the long history of the former Mundesley Hospital looks set to be several weeks off, although a deal is still progressing according to the sales agents.

Villagers in Mundesley and nearby Gimingham have been subject to months of conjecture and rumour about the future of the Diana Princess of Wales Treatment drug and alcohol treatment centre, which has been operated from the former hospital since 1997.

Adapt, the charity behind the venture, called in administrators last summer but have continued operations on a reduced level while a sale is sought.

The company understood to be behind the possible sale, Baytree Care, is known to still be in talks with agents Christie and Co, with administrators Grant Thornton also playing a key ongoing role.

Last night Robert Mellamphy, of Christie and Co, said he could not confirm the name of the company believed to be behind the sale but added: 'The deal is progressing as quickly as it can.'

Local concerns have focussed on what will come next at the centre. Future use will be limited by what local planning rules allows and what kind of registration the industry body the Commission for Social Care Inspection gives to the unit.

Mundesley Parish Council will discuss the future of the centre at its planning committee meeting next Tuesday and discuss what action can be taken.