Dental surgery plans for ex-betting shop approved

A former betting shop in Bradford is to be replaced by a dentist's surgery in what has been described as a "positive change" for the surrounding community.

Bradford Council has approved the change of use application for the former Coral bookmakers on Wrose Road in Wrose.

Applicants FYGS Healthcare 2 Ltd said the surgery could create 10 full-time jobs.

Approving the proposals, planning officers said they represented a "welcome development" and would benefit the public by "improving the coverage of health services in the Wrose area".

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the application said: "The proposed change of use from a betting office to a dental practice is also likely to bring other overall health benefits to the local community and support the well-being and quality of life of local residents."

Responding to the proposals, planning officers said the establishment of a new dental practice in a "highly sustainable location, adjacent to a local centre on a high frequency bus route, would represent a welcome development".

They said there was a need for dentistry in the area.

Officers added: "There is often a perception that gambling establishments can result in anti-social behaviour.

"While this is not evidenced here, nevertheless the loss of the bookmakers could be seen as a positive change for the local community."

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