Shropshire dentist left disappointed after plans to open a new surgery in Whitchurch are rejected
A Shropshire dentist has expressed frustration and disappointment after his application to open a new dental centre in Whitchurch was rejected.
Dr Satish Chappiti wanted to open a new branch of the Amalgam Removal Centre in a first-storey unit at Ellesmere Business Park, but his application has been turned down by planning officers. The proposal, which was put forward on behalf of Dr Chappiti by agent, David Parker, outlined plans to open the practice two days a week to begin with, with opening hours extending to five days per week. The application was a change of use for first floor premises in the unit currently occupied by Oakdale, a bed retailer.
The application detailed plans to convert the first floor, which is not used by Oakdale, into a dental surgery. The planned opening hours were 8am to 5pm. Dr Chappiti wanted to open a surgery at the unit because there is a growing demand for dental treatment in the town, which currently only has one practice, and rental fees are significantly lower than in the town centre.
After careful consideration of the plans, the application was rejected by Shropshire County Council on the grounds that the practice would increase the need for off-street parking and that opening a dental surgery may contribute to a reduction in employee numbers at the business park.
Dr Chappiti, who has looked at alternative premises closer to the centre of town, said that he was disappointed by the decision, which he believes is a missed opportunity to provide local people with a valuable service, which is in demand.
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