Council refuse proposed plan to turn surgery into vet clinic

Christchurch Medical Practice announced plans to close two of its practices in 2023.

The Bransgore branch closed in January 2024 and the Burton site closed in April earlier this year.

Priory Veterinary Group submitted an application to BCP Council in May to move into the premises at the former Burton site.

A statement submitted with the application read: “The proposal seeks to allow the main building to be occupied by a veterinary clinic which is both within the same use class, as well as having a very similar use and operation in practice.

“As a veterinary clinic it is a slightly less intense use which will ease pressure on car parking and allow the existing pharmacy to use to be retained on the site without disrupting this valued local service.”

Residents were torn over the application; many objections were submitted as a result of the plans.

One resident of Birch Avenue said: “Burton should not be deprived of its surgery and pharmacy in order that a vets can take over. The village doesn't need a vet, but it does need doctors.

“Purewell surgery is already at full capacity and it will be impossible to get an appointment. Also, that is a long way to go for the elderly in Burton who need a local medical practice. This is totally against the wishes of all Burton residents who currently use this practice.”

Other residents in the area were supportive of the proposed plan, they said: “I believe the change in venue type to a veterinary practice will be great for the village, considering no GP practice has been given the opportunity to take it instead, a vets will be an excellent alternative, bringing great access for those in the village for their pet care needs and also trade for the local shop from people coming outside the village to see the vets.

“It will not impact any more or less on the local environment as far as people parking or waste etc, compared to the doctors."

Reasons of the refusal are yet to be released by the council.