GP PATIENTS in Tameside will be able to access a new medical diagnostics centre if plans are given the go ahead.
InHealth has applied to Tameside Council to convert two units at Denton’s Crown Point North Shopping Park into such a facility, which will create at least 25 jobs.
And if it is allowed, that may provide the ability to carry out scans including MRI, X-Ray, CT, Nuclear Medicine, DXA, Audiology, Ultrasound, Angiography, Mammograms and Endoscopy.
The firm, based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, wants to take on what was an O2 store and Tui Holiday Superstore and merge them.
It would also install a mezzanine floor and carry out other works to enable use of the combined unit as a medical diagnostics centre.
InHealth says it works in close partnership with NHS Trusts across the UK and delivers community healthcare services to GPs and clinical commissioning groups from more than 100 community-based sites.
They enable local GPs and other professionals to refer patients directly to a diagnostic centre for a scan or other test, whose results are sent directly to the doctor.
Both units have been vacant for approximately three months and there are no restrictions that would prevent their amalgamation, their use as a diagnostics centre or the creation of a mezzanine, which will be used for consulting, staff welfare and administration.
A plant compound will be installed and accommodate a chiller to aid the functioning of the MRI scanner.
A new automated swing-in entrance door would be placed on one of the units with the door to the ither being removed.
And documents state the changing face of the retail industry mean a plan like this is needed.
They say: “Diversification through alternative uses to retail is specifically encouraged in Denton, due to the expected contraction of retailing.
“InHealth’s occupation of these units will provide support and enhance the vitality and viability of Crown Point by bringing vacant units into an active, diversified use.
“The proposals will also provide economic benefits in terms of capital investment and the creation of around 25-30 jobs in a range of roles. Approximately 15 employees will work onsite every day.
“The development will also encourage linked trips and support the vitality of the wider Crown Point shopping park.
“This will support the vitality and viability of Denton town centre by diversifying the services contained within the shopping park, bringing back into use two vacant units, generating new employment opportunities, and providing an accessible community health service.
“The proposed works required to facilitate the occupation of the units by InHealth remains in keeping with the existing appearance of the unit and the character of the wider shopping park.
“The Community Diagnostics Centre will benefit the local community by providing improved access to healthcare facilities and by supporting NHS Trusts in easing patient referrals.
“The use of the vacant units as a CDC will also help to improve the vitality and viability of Denton town centre by diversifying its existing service offer. It will create around 30 jobs in a range of roles within a sustainable location.”
Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning) committee will decide whether to grant or refuse planning permission.