A DENTIST, chemist and counsellor could be on the site of a new medical centre planned for Bramhope.

And the new building planned for Tredgold Crescent would also have improved access for mums with prams and the disabled.

But concern has been expressed about the effect that relocating the village chemist could have on other shops near to its current location.

The matter was discussed at a meeting of Bramhope Parish Council, attended by Dr David Whiter, a partner in the Bridge Street Medical practice, which will own the new centre, and Christopher Acton, the project manager.

Mr Acton told the meeting: "It is basically a one-and-a-half storey building.

"We have had the normal chat with the planners and they said they would want none of the houses around it to be overlooked by it.

"Hopefully we will be able to have a pharmacy.

"It gives a better service to patients if you can actually communicate directly with them.

"There will be up to five consulting rooms with GPs and we are hoping to attract a dentist."

Dr Whiter added: "People have made the point that we don't at the moment have accommodation for a counsellor and people have said they would like a counsellor."

Parish council chairman Councillor John Mordy asked whether the existing Stancliffe Pharmacy at The Parade would remain open and Dr Whiter said that from consultation with the owner, it would not.

But Mr Acton said that there would be a separate entrance to the shop when it relocated to the site of the new centre.

Dr Whiter said: "I think it is fair to say there is probably going to be a small increase in traffic.

"That would be balanced with the fact that there wouldn't be the amount of people travelling to the pharmacy to collect medicines."

Coun Mordy said: "I think, in general, we welcome this.

"Obviously, we want to see up-to-date medical services.

"I think there are some spin-off problems related to the pharmacy.

"It is not your worry, but our worry as a council as to what will happen to The Parade as and when the pharmacy moves from there.

"We may have to have a discussion with various other parties.

"Having said that, it doesn't mean we are trying to stop what is a highly desirable new development."

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