A CRISIS in dentistry across the county could be partially averted if planners approve a new surgery in Worcester.

An application to site an NHS dentist surgery off the Droitwich Road in Worcester has been sent to Worcester City Council and will be decided by councillors next month.

The application by Alan Ashton is fully supported by bosses at South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust, who have been trying without success to improve the provision of NHS dentistry in the area.

The news came after the Evening News reported last month how the two remaining NHS dentists in the city were closing their books, meaning patients would have to either pay for pricey private treatment or visit a surgery outside the city.

Alan McMichael, consultant in dental public health, said in a submission to the council that he supported strongly the need for a new NHS dental practice in Worcester.

"We are convinced a new dental practice is needed in Worcester to meet the needs of city people," he said.

"Were the proposal to fail, we cannot say when another opportunity might arise.

"We consider the new practice to be of major community benefit, and we urge the planning committee to consider the exceptional circumstances justifying this application."

Worcester City councillors refused an earlier application by Mr Ashton to convert the house in Beech Avenue into a dental surgery, but alterations have now been made to the plans and it is hoped they will now be accepted by councillors and officers alike.

Peter Yates, principal planning officer at Worcester City Council, said it was likely officers would recommend the plans for approval.

"Last time the planning officers recommended the plans for approval, but members refused it," he said.

"The difference between this and the previous application is the provision of some residential accommodation in the house, which is key.

"I would expect the proposal to be recommended for approval, as the need for more NHS dentist provision in Worcester has been well documented."