By Isle of Wight Observer
Independent veterinary practice, Wight Vets, plans to relocate and expand into purpose-built healthcare premises, formerly the IW headquarters of the British Red Cross. Located next to Sainsbury’s petrol station on Hunnycross Way, the site has been vacant for the past year and was purchased by Wight Vets in January.
The practice was established in August 2022, and, as the business has gone “from strength to strength”, has outgrown its current premises in Chapel Street.
Plans have been submitted to the IW Council by Goolden Designs, on behalf of Wight Vets, proposing minor external changes and a comprehensive internal renovation. The main entrance will be moved to the far-left of the building with additional windows installed to improve natural light in the reception area, and solar panels on the roof.
Internally, the ground floor will feature level access throughout, separate seating areas for cats and dogs, three consulting rooms, a treatment room for veterinary nurses, and a designated bereavement room. Clinical areas will include separate cat and dog wards, an isolation ward, as well as imaging, operating, dental, and orthopaedic theatres, and a fully equipped laboratory. Larger operating theatres will enable the practice to focus on specialist skills including laparoscopy (keyhole surgery).
The upstairs space will provide offices, staff facilities, and overnight accommodation for staff when pets require extended nursing or emergency care. Home visits will continue using its electric veterinary care vehicle.
A significant attraction of the new site is its central location, complete with on-site parking and good accessibility for bus users. Currently employing four full-time and eight part-time staff members, the move will also create three new jobs.
The plans can be viewed via iw.observer/planning-portal, using reference 25/00704/FUL, and are open for public consultation until June 20, with a decision due on July 10.