Doctors seek to renew approval for a new surgery

The GPs at The Croft have asked Arun District Council to extend the planning permission granted for the work in February 2010.

The approval had a time limity of three years in keeping with standard practice.

The doctors’ planning agent, Paula Stratford, says in a statement planning permission was granted, although the scheme fell outside the council’s areas for development, because of more important considerations.

“These material considerations relate to the fact community benefits would result from the proposed development and that there was an over-riding need for the development.”

They are seeking a further three years in which to carry out the works.

The scheme involves building on land next to the surgery on Barnham Road and including a retail pharmacy among other ancillary uses.

* More space has been sought by the Southern Co-operative for its Yapton branch. The retailer wants to add 110sqm to the existing 167sqm at the Main Road branch with a flat above.