Complete Dental surgery in Bearwood Road, Bearwood, has lodged an appeal with government planning inspectors seeking approval to construct a three-storey extension, after Sandwell Council previously refused the larger proposal due to privacy concerns of neighbouring residents.
Earlier this month, Sandwell Council granted permission for a reduced scale extension involving the addition of two rooms and the modification of two existing rooms, having earlier rejected plans for a more extensive three-storey extension that included four new surgery rooms.
Despite the council’s approval of the scaled-back application, Dr Nikesh Farmah, representing the dental practice, has appealed to the government inspectors who have the authority to overturn local planning decisions. The aim is to secure permission for the originally proposed three-storey extension.
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The larger extension was intended to address a significant shortage of appointment slots cited by the practice. However, council planners expressed concerns that the initial proposal would result in “intrusive overlooking” and diminish privacy for neighbouring properties.
When granting permission for the smaller extension, the council noted that it was situated at a sufficient distance from neighbouring homes to avoid significant issues. They also commented that the proposed size and mass of the extension were proportionate to the existing building and would not adversely affect the character or visual amenity of the wider area.
Complete Dental highlighted a pressing need for expansion due to “very high levels” of patient demand, leading to long NHS waiting lists and limited availability for appointments.
A statement submitted with the application explained: “There is a significant and ongoing shortage of NHS dental provision across Sandwell and neighbouring areas.
“Complete Dental is currently experiencing very high levels of patient demand, resulting in long NHS waiting lists and limited appointment availability.
“Local demand for NHS dental services continues to grow, and the existing size and layout of the premises restrict the practice’s ability to meet this need effectively.
“The proposed expansion is the only realistic means by which the practice can increase capacity, shorten waiting times, and improve NHS patient access.”