Vets to take over former Halfords and KFC units in Amblecote

Powis and Partners has won planning permission to convert three empty units on the Crystal Retail Centre, Platts Road, into its new premises.

The three units are next to Pizza Hut, with Tesco Express on the corner.

Two of the units were previously occupied by a KFC and a Halfords.

Notes to planners state Powis & Partners currently lease their building, just up the road on Audnam, which is "no longer fit for purpose." 

It has been based there for around 40 years.

Powis and Partners existing base on Audman (Pic: Google)

They state that the demand for veterinary services has increased "following the rise in pet ownership as a result of the pandemic" and that they currently have 24 staff including six vets, with the initial plan for it to take on four extra staff at the new building.

Planners at Dudley Council approved the application for a change of use from existing retail and hot food use units to a veterinary surgery, as well as minor alterations to elevations of the unit comprising new glazing.

Planning officers said: "The development would make a positive contribution to the character of this part of the local centre making use of an otherwise vacant building, bringing with it more job opportunities for local people and helping to improve the vitality and vibrancy of the area and would not have any harmful effect on neighbouring amenity or highway safety."

The practice will be open from 8am till 8pm on weekdays, from 8.30am till 5pm on Saturdays, and from 10am till 4pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Powis & Partners will also offer an out of hours service for emergency cases.