A Bracknell dentist surgery is set to re-open following a controversial makeover dubbed ‘dangerous’ by opponents to the plan.
Crowthorne Smiles Dental Practice on Lower Broadmoor Road has been given permission by Bracknell Forest Council to update the layout of the currently closed premises, as well as building flats above it.
The dentistry will undergo major renovation, including inserting new windows and upgrading the front of the building.
Described as in “bad condition”, the existing roof is to be replaced with a new pitched roof to accommodate two two-bedroom flats.
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Despite fierce opposition by the local Parish Council and environment policy officer, the plan has been approved by the Borough Council and a legal agreement signed.
Objections centred around parking and its impact on a Special Protection Area (SPA).
Crowthorne Parish Council called the parking plans “dangerous” and recommended the application be refused.
It said the plans would bring wheelchair users and vehicles into “direct conflict” in the Morgan Centre car park, referring to the proposal as a “desperate attempt” by the developer to shoehorn in the required parking with “no regard” for safety.
The SPA officer stated that the development would “put extra pressure” on the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area.
The date for the dentist to re-open is yet to be confirmed.
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