Veterinary practice plans

A veterinary practice is set to expand its base under new plans submitted to Sunderland City Council.

The authority’s area development control sub-committee will discuss plans for the Vets4Pets business in Blue House Lane, Washington.

Proposals include a “change of use” for an adjoining bungalow which covers a roof replacement, demolishing external garages and joining the two buildings with a linking extension.

Applicant Mindaugas Sileris aims to use the bungalow as a main entrance for clients with the existing practice only being accessible for staff and deliveries, a report states.

It adds the expansion plans aim to help deal with demand alongside an 11-space car park catering for visitors and staff parking off-site.

During consultation, four comments were received from neighbours in Baltimore Court raising concerns about loss of garage space.

This includes the loss of the 3.5-metre-high boundary and the potential of gardens being damaged during demolition and construction. In response to these concerns, planning officers have recommended that a 2.4-metre-high boundary fence is created at the rear of the building alongside changes to car parking layout and a new drainage scheme.

The plans are recommended for approval with a final decision expected at Sunderland Civic Centre next week.

This includes the veterinary practice opening between 8am-7.30pm on weekdays (with no consultations after 6.30pm), 8am-5pm on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.

The meeting stgarts at 5.45pm on Tuesday.