Former coffee shop could become dental practice

Blanchards traded for 101 years in Sleaford before closing in February 2023

A former cafe in Sleaford could soon be converted into a new dental practice.

Plans to transform the former Blanchards coffee shop, at the corner of Boston Road and South Gate, have been submitted to North Kesteven District Council.

The coffee house announced it would be closing for good in February 2023, after 101 years in business.

Plans for the Grade II listed premises include two surgery rooms, a reception and waiting area, a decontamination room and disabled toilets.

Recent reports indicate there are 51 dental practices across Lincolnshire, with only four of them located in North Kesteven, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

During a recent health scrutiny committee meeting at Lincolnshire County Council, it was revealed only 25% of people in the county could access a NHS dentist in the second half of 2023, meaning three out of four people did not have access.

Representatives from the NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board told councillors access to dental services “still remains a challenge” in the county.

It is currently not known whether the proposed new dental surgery intends to take NHS patients.

Announcing the closure of the cafe in 2023, one of the owners wrote on Facebook: “It is with sadness that I have to inform you that Blanchards Coffee Shop will cease trading on Friday, 24th February.

"I’d like to thank you all for your support and custom over the years.”

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