A recent planning application lodged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has revealed that Parklands Veterinary Group is looking to expand with new facilities in Portglenone aiming to create 'a modern facility for the health care of small animals'.
The present clinic on Townhill Road in the village is one of a number operated by the Parklands Group, with others based in Dungannon, Cookstown, Aughnacloy, and Coalisland. Parklands took over the long-established clinic from A.G.McCullough who served the rural community for many years.
According to the planning application Parklands is seeking a change of use from council for premises located at 26 and 28 Townhill Road, from office, carwash/valeting, and storage building, to small animal veterinary surgery. The application includes a proposal for an extension to the rear of the building to facilitate a lift, and staircase, and a disabled access ramp and steps to front along with associated parking.
According to the planning application supporting statement 'the proposal includes some modest changes to the exterior, but significant alterations are proposed internally to provide a modern veterinary clinic that is fit for purpose'.
The ground floor area will be the main area of activity within the new clinic, with the basement to be used for ancillary and back-of-house functions. The facility will also have a physio and rehabilitation space.
The supporting statement adds:
'The clinic is designed to handle household animals only. Farm animals and horses
would not be treated at this clinic. The clinic would be run on an appointment-only
basis.
'It would be open during normal business hours, i.e. 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday
to Friday, and 8.00am to 2.00pm Saturday. The clinic would be closed on Sundays.'
The application is currently under consideration and will come before Council's Planning Committee in the months ahead.