A DENTAL practice's plans to expand its premises have been approved.

JE Thorpe on Mill Lane, Sutton Leach had sent in an application to the council for permission to convert the house next door to form part of its premises.

The plans, drawn up by agents RJG Architecture Ltd, stated: "The two properties are next door with no other neighbouring properties with parking available outside.

"The surgery has had to adapt to the social distancing measures following the pandemic and as a result of this, coupled with increased demand for dental procedures the business has made the decision to expand.

"The surgery has purchased the house next door to the surgery with the view to converting the property to create a waiting room area and treatment rooms and ensure that social distancing measures can be enforced for patients."

The application added: "In conclusion, the impact of the proposed change of use to the property will be of no impact to the surrounding area, the surgery operates in normal working hours and the parking will be used during these hours".

It said there are "no immediate properties next door and therefore not impacted by the change".

The plans attracted one letter of objection from a resident.

However, St Helens Council granted the expansion permission.