A new medical centre could be coming to North Clare if plans are approved.
MMD Atlantic Limited has submitted a planning application for the change of use of an existing guesthouse to a medical centre that it’s stated would serve the community “for the next 35 years or more”.
The application submitted by Paul Conway Architects on behalf of MMD Atlantic Limited on August 23rd states that MMD Atlantic is an amalgamation of three local medical practices – two of which are in Lahinch while one is in Corofin.
As the buildings were developed during the 1980s and 1990s, the applicant says they are no longer fit for dealing with the “much more complex procedures and treatments required for a modern delivery of GP care”.
For this reason, the company says it’s seeking planning permission to redevelop Grovemount House which is currently a guest and dwelling house and is located at Cloonaveige on the Lahinch Road in Ennistymon.
According to the application, the existing building won’t need to be “significantly changed” to become a medical centre “except to fill in a number of windows and adjust external doors to facillitate the revised internal room layout”.
The application proposes creating 31 car parking spaces – three of which will be accessible – as well as a bike rack.
When fully-operational, it’s stated the medical centre would employ four doctors, two nurses, one receptionist and three in administrative roles.
Each doctor would use two consulting rooms at a time “alternating between them” and up to 10 patients would be able to be treated – with 10 more able to be accommodated in the waiting room.
Clare County Council must reach a decision on the proposed development by October 17th and submissions can be made until September 26th.
