In response to the shortage of NHS dental services on the Isle of Wight, a new dental clinic is about to open in Ryde town centre, which is expected to serve up to 7,000 patients.
Harunani & Co Dental Group has obtained approval from the local council to convert the ground floor of 51 and 52 Ryde High Street into an NHS dental clinic. The new clinic will be staffed by five dentists, five dental nurses, two reception staff and an administrator to provide a full range of services.
The approved application number is 25/00741/FUL, which involves the conversion of the currently vacant duplex at 52 into a clinic. The building was previously a massage parlour and wellness centre.
The application was submitted by Andrew White Planning Consultants, and the document states that the clinic is being established under a contract awarded by the Hampshire Division of the National Health Service of England and the Isle of Wight General Care Board to relieve the local dental service resources.
This is the 19th clinic opened by the Harunani Group nationwide, and it has previously established institutions in a number of areas with insufficient dental services.
Planning officials said the project would significantly improve access to NHS dental services for residents in Ryde and the surrounding area, helping to alleviate the current service gap, improve public health and boost the vitality of Ryde town centre.
Earlier this year, Damira Dental also received approval to open another NHS dental clinic at 7-8 High Street, further demonstrating the urgent need for basic dental services in the area.