A long-established dental practice in Hythe has applied for planning permission to relocate within the town, saying the move would help tackle a shortage of local medical facilities.
Pennypot Dental has submitted plans to Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) to move from its current premises on Martello Drive to a new site on Barrack Hill, around a mile away. The practice argues the relocation would ease pressure on existing services and improve patient access.
Under the proposal, the Martello Drive surgery would be converted back into a residential home. The new dental practice would be created by merging and refurbishing two neighbouring houses on Barrack Hill into a purpose-built facility.
Planning documents describe the move as a response to “potentially overcrowded” healthcare provision in Hythe. The proposed site is close to the town centre, accessible via a level walking route, and well connected by public transport.
Barrack Hill is also said to offer sufficient on-street parking. Plans include a designated disabled parking space and step-free access to the building via a ramp.
The development would reopen a currently blocked garden gate onto the Military Road footpath, creating an additional entrance. A single-storey extension would link the two properties and house a new reception and waiting area.
Internally, the ground floor would feature an open-plan layout with two treatment rooms, enabling the practice to operate as a multi-chair dental clinic.
While the scheme would reduce the number of homes in the immediate area, Pennypot Dental says the net loss would be limited to one property, as the former surgery would return to residential use. The application also states that the design has been carefully considered to avoid overlooking or overshadowing neighbouring homes.
Pennypot Dental runs six practices across Kent, including locations in Hawkinge, Hythe, New Romney, Ashford, Deal and Edenbridge.
FHDC is expected to rule on the application by March 16. No public objections or comments have been received to date.