GP surgeries pre-empt pharmacy threat

TWO Shetland GP practices have applied to set up local pharmacies in Brae and Levenwick in the wake of moves to establish a private chemist in Scalloway.

The Lerwick-based company behind plans to set up a community pharmacy on Dounby, in Orkney, has applied to do the same in Scalloway.

Scalloway GP practice has submitted a rival application, but it will only be considered if the bid by Norsepharm is refused. A public meeting is being planned to discuss the matter in the village.

A similar meeting in Dounby in March drew 200 islanders to object to the plan, which was initially rejected by NHS Orkney. This decision was overturned on appeal by the Scottish government and the Norsepharm chemist should open within the next few months.

Director of pharmacy Chris Nicolson said: “We are meeting with the community council and we are also planning to have a public meeting in Scalloway.”