PLANS are in the pipeline for the construction of a new veterinary practice at Stratton.

This news comes about after a meeting between the planning committee of Bude-Stratton Town Council on February 15, where councillors discussed a proposal put forward by Adrian Oliver from Holsworthy for Penbode Vets. The business has been running at Sandcrest and Horizon View in Stratton for some time.

Cllr Tony Philp started the discussion by stating that a similar proposal had been accepted in Camelford, with a ‘very attractive, chalet-like building’ with eleven extra parking spaces currently being developed at Valley Truckle.

As the plans were presented to the committee, Cllr Bob Willingham commented on the size of the proposed development. He said: “It’s massive, and it’s right as you come into the town.”

The development is proposed to be built at its current location at Sandcrest.

However, Cllr Philp was in favour of the practice. “I think it would be very good for Bude — it’s (the Camelford development) very smart, and obviously a very successful practice. We’ll end up with both existing buildings gone, with one building built.”

It is believed that the farm section of the practice would stretch out over Horizon View, with extra parking spaces also accompanying this.

Cllr Lea Deely said: “I can’t see any reason to object to the development,” and Cllr Philp added: “I think this will be a good development for Bude.”

The application involves the demolition of the existing building at Sandcrest, to be replaced with a modern veterinary practice and associated vehicle parking. The facility would be available to both pets and farm animals.

If approved, the project would see the construction of a two-storey building 20m x 18m with a single storey block 5.5m x 13m for the farming section of the practice. Currently, the business runs its farm section in a converted bungalow and the small animal section in a converted two-storey house. It is thought a new construction for the practice would modernise and provide more space for the business to run and expand its services for the area.

It is hoped that the construction of a new two-storey building would facilitate the small animal practice, with the development of car parking for over 30 vehicles and room to provide a single storey building for the farm animal practice. The development will include a reception area, four consulting rooms, two operational theatres, an X-ray facility, dental operating theatre, dispensaries and staff accommodation to provide 24-hour care for any animals making overnight stays, as well as offices, a staff room and toilets. The business hopes to acquire ‘hospital status’ in the aim of meeting demands for the running of a modern veterinary practice.

The practice intends to provide services between 8.30am and 6pm on weekdays and 8.30am until 12.30pm on Saturdays, with other visits being emergency only.

Councillors came to an agreed resolution of no objection. The final decision is expected to be made by Cornwall Council’s planning committee.