Councillors at Stoke-on-Trent City Council have approved a mobility showroom in Tunstall.

The showroom is set to be located on Tunstall Trade Park and will display bulky wheelchairs, powerchairs and bathroom aids for customers to try before they buy.

No objections were received both from residents or statutory consultees. The development will create four jobs, two full-time and two part-time employees, with the company only expect five customers a day.

Speaking on behalf of the applicant Pamela Longhurst-Pierce told councillors: "I would like to note that no objections have been received and no concerns have been raised in terms of visual amenity, residential amenity and highway safety. The census 2021 data published by the Office of National Statistics in November 2022 details that there are more people than ever before in older aged groups.

"CareCo has over 13 years experience in the mobility aid market, the company has a range of over 5000 products including walkin bathrooms and bedroom aid products designed to assist users with improved mobility and a better quality of life. The company's business runs principally online or through a call centre nevertheless its showroom presence remains an important aspect of the business."

The was the only unit available to the applicant CareCo due to their accessibility needs. One shop in Tunstall was identified as a potential alternative however was set on two floors without a lift meaning customers with mobility issues would have been unable to access the upper floor.

Ms Longhurst-Pierce continued: "Overall this application is of significant merit, namely the proposals will meet an identified need, providing mobility and care products to Tunstall and neighbouring towns, provide an important service to the community. It will facilitate autonomy to elderly and disabled people to carry out daily activities and create jobs to benefit local people and the wider economy."

The showroom is set to be open to customers between the hours of 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 10 am until 4pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

It was also confirmed that the unit will not be a dispatch centre and it is expected that the majority of customers will use the showroom and place and order on the phone or online at a later date.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the planning committee with Councillor Dave Evans commenting: "I think it's a good use for a unit, I think from memory the council built those units so it's good to see them used and a business that will help people in the local area."

READ MORE: Plans for six brand-new flats in Longton rejected by local council 

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