Granite City dentist purchases West End property despite Covid-19 disruption

AN Aberdeen dental practice founded in the same year as the NHS has secured its future, thanks to a £600,000 funding package.

Carden Place Dental Practice Ltd has operated since 1948, providing both private and NHS patients with treatment from its West End address in Aberdeen.

In March, the practice was forced to close its doors due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The practice’s current lease was coming to an end as lockdown began so the business sought support from Bank of Scotland, securing the loan to purchase the premises it has occupied for the last 25 years.

Chris Pilc, Carden Place Dental Practice Ltd director, said: “Like many healthcare providers, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, we couldn’t provide the normal face-to-face care for our patients. On top of this, our lease was coming to an end and we were facing the challenge of moving lots of specialist equipment which even without lockdown restrictions, can be very tricky and expensive.

“We decided to approach our landlord to see if they would consider selling, and they agreed. Thanks to the support from Bank of Scotland we were able to complete the purchase of the practice and minimise disruption during this challenging time.

“We’re now operating at about half our usual capacity but we’re hopeful as we edge towards the further easing of restrictions, we will be able to return to some form of relative normality in the coming months.”