For more than a decade the site of the old Norfolk & Norwich Hospital has changed shape – and now the last piece is being put in place.

Work on the landmark Norwich development began in 1999 and the final phase is due to be completed by next summer. It will mark the end of an era in property conversion and house-building, the like of which may never be seen again.

The main administration building was changed, followed by the two blocks flanking each side – the former nurses' blocks – before new homes were created around and behind. Now comes the long-awaited development of one of the oldest parts of the entire site, the Ivory Building, adjacent to the main administration building. It dates from 1771-2, being the original main part of the hospital and later used as a teaching centre. It houses a first world war memorial wing created in 1927 with the name Memorial Wing remaining.

Developers Charles Church and selling agents Bidwells have officially launched the first phase onto the market, with some impressive computer-generated images of how the finished building will look – though such has been the interest in the entire scheme, they have already made off-plan sales.

The original Grade II star listed building includes original features such as high ceilings and vast windows. In total, the building will offer 33 apartments and five houses with about half the apartments and three terraced houses remaining for sale. The guide prices for one and two-bedroom apartments are from �121,950.

Alison Page, head of sales and marketing for Charles Church and Persimmon, said: 'We couldn't be more delighted with the reception The Ivory Building has had from the general public.'

Marc Langdon, new homes manager of Bidwells in Norwich, said: 'This is a very special development in a conservation area. We expect a lot of interest.'

The sales office at The Ivory Building is open Thursday to Sunday, 10.30am-5.30pm, and Monday, 11.30am to 5.30pm; or call 01603 627595.