Vets proposed for Shrewsbury antiques shop creating 18 jobs

The Animal Trust Ltd has applied to Shropshire Council for permission to take over the FC Manser & Sons building on Coleham Head, Shrewsbury.

But objections have already been received about the scheme, concerning traffic and noise the proposed practice could generate.

In a design statement by Plan A on behalf of the trust, which is a not-for-profit veterinary practice catering primarily for dogs, cats, rabbits and some other small animals, it is stated that the external appearance of the building would remain unchanged except for the conversion of a double door into a single 'leaf' door.

The building currently has off-street parking for 10 cars and one disabled space. Under the scheme, a further eight car spaces and one more disabled space would be created.

The statement adds that the practice will be open every day from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and 8.30am to 1pm on Saturday. An out-of-hours service would also be offered.

"The veterinary practice will be accessible for clients and members of staff by non-car modes of travel with the central location being within walking distance from residential areas and highly accessible by bus and train," the statement continues.

"It is expected that the practice will create eight full-time equivalent jobs in the first 18 months, which is expected to rise to approximately 18 after four years.

"The job opportunities will primarily be high-value skilled and professional positions in addition to a number of administrative and clerical positions.

"The proposal will not generate any smells, fumes or other such nuisances. Excess animal noise is rare in a practice environment since most of the hospitalised animals are ill or are recovering from a procedure and are therefore less likely to make a noise."

However, several residents have objected, claiming that there is a lack of demand for such a business, there will be a lack of parking, that traffic flow will be disrupted by vehicles and there will be excessive noise from dogs barking.

One objector said: "The building itself is clearly designed as a showroom. The need for such a veterinary surgery is to be doubted and the sustainability of such a business must be called into question with two long established and purpose-built premises in close proximity."

Another said: "I do not believe this to be an appropriate location for a veterinary practice. There is an issue with traffic and access. There will be noise nuisance to neighbouring houses with dogs barking. There is not sufficient parking."

The plans will be discussed at a date to be set.