Following the closure of two key pharmacies, Sir Robert Buckland is urging Old Town residents to back a new bid by HG Hanks to establish a much-needed pharmacy in the area
HG Hanks, a well-established pharmacy operator, is appealing to Old Town residents for support in their bid to open a new pharmacy at the former Rowlands Pharmacy site.
This initiative follows the significant gap left by the recent closures of Boots and Rowlands Pharmacy.
Sir Robert Buckland, MP for Swindon South, has been actively supporting this bid since January when Mr. Patel, owner of HG Hanks, first expressed interest in opening the new pharmacy.
"The closure of both Boots and Rowlands Pharmacy has left a significant gap in services that our community relies on," said Sir Robert.
HG Hanks operates four successful pharmacies in Swindon, including the long-standing Hawthorn Pharmacy, which has been serving the community for 35 years.
In his letter of support, Sir Robert highlighted the challenges faced by Old Town residents due to the lack of local pharmaceutical services.
"Old Town is situated at the top of a large and very steep hill, making a nearby pharmacy essential for our vulnerable and elderly residents," he explained.
The proposed pharmacy location, inside a Cooperative supermarket, offers several advantages, including convenient access, ample parking, and good disabled facilities.
According to Patel the accessibility of this site ensures that all residents, especially the elderly and those with mobility issues, can easily access our services.
The application has also received support from Swindon Borough Council's Health and Wellbeing board, boosting its prospects.
"We are ready and eager to restore essential pharmaceutical services to approximately 7,500 local residents," Sir Rowland stated.
By uniting in support of this bid, Old Town residents can help bring back a vital service to their community
