A new healthcare facility and pharmacy could be even bigger than initially envisioned due to “significant” interest from service providers.
West Norfolk Council granted planning permission for Downham’s Willows Pharmacy to relocate into the old social club on Paradise Road in January this year.
The original application said the new healthcare centre was expected to improve access for patients, provide three consulting rooms and an automatic 24-hour medication dispenser, and incorporate the NHS’s ‘Pharmacy First’ initiative.
The new healthcare centre, which will be at the old Downham Market Club, has attracted ‘significant’ interest from service providers
Now, a new application has been submitted including a revised design due to a potential need for even more space.
“Since the granting of planning permission in January 2025, a significant number of enquiries from other professional medical service providers has been received from a variety of health care practices,” a report from John Stephenson, a Downham-based planning agent acting on behalf of applicant Dr Ardeshir Danesh, says.
“As a direct result, following a considerable amount of negotiation, it has been decided that now is the time and opportunity to expand the extent of healthcare provision, which in turn will require a revised application.
“The essence of providing a healthcare centre remains unaltered.”
The new application is asking permission for the main pharmacy building to be extended beyond its current blueprint.
The two buildings flanking this section would be used for “associated health care” – including four consultation rooms, reception, and toilet. This would require a “small extension” to the front of the west building.
Meanwhile, the plans for an increased number of treatment rooms would mean around 20 new staff members would be needed – more than the ten or 12 stated in the original application.
The site layout has also been changed to provide a minimum of 21 parking spaces.
A new consultation period has opened, and will run until August 19.
The healthcare facility will be privately funded, but will form part of an integrated care system with the NHS.
Downham has three other doctors’ surgeries – The Hollies Surgery, Bridge Street Surgery, and the Howdale Group Practice.