A planning application has been submitted to East Cambridgeshire District Council to expand an NHS dentist in Littleport by knocking through two local businesses.

The Littleport Dental Surgery, on 11 Granby Street, sits next to the Littleport Easy Clean Laundrette and the Loach and Wade Opticians.

The planning application (24/00169/FUL) states: "To convert the laundrette (no. 9) and optometrist (no.7) into a dental practice which will then be knocked through to the existing dental practice (no. 11). Small extension to the rear."

The plans come at a time when many people are struggling to be seen by an NHS dentist in their area.

Recommended reading: East Cambridgeshire planning applications from February 12 

According to a BBC Local Democracy Reporter, Hannah Brown: "The dental practice said there is currently a high demand for dentists across the country and that its plans to expand could allow extra dentists to be hired.

"In plans submitted to East Cambridgeshire District Council it said: "The extension of the existing dentist practice holds the potential to create jobs in the community, including positions for dentists, dental hygienists, receptionists, and administrative personnel."