A ROBOT could soon be dispensing prescriptions in Dorchester.

Black Circle has applied for permission to extend the chemist facilities at the Victoria Park Pharmacy, in Maud Road, as well as installing a ‘collection robot’ at the front of the store.

“A pharmacy has traded from the premises for over 30 years and has established itself as an integral part of the local NHS as a health care provider,” the plans said.

“The pharmacy business is working to capacity in the current premises. The annual prescription numbers have more than doubled in the last two years.

The plans would see the Victoria Park Pharmacy in Dorchester extended and the robot installed. Pictures: Black Circle/Dorset Council

“The pharmacy is offering numerous healthcare services from its current small Consultation Room, which isn’t fit for purpose.

“The proposal will allow the existing Consultation Room to increase to accommodate a treatment bed. The proposal also introduces a new treatment room.”

The collection robot would allow people to collect prescriptions 24 hours a day, the plans said, with extra space in the building.

A garage to the rear of the premises would be demolished as part of the plan, with the robot installed at the front of the shop.

The scheme will now be considered by Dorset Council planners. For more details, and to comment on the plans, log on to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, and search for application reference P/FUL/2023/07198.

The plans would see the Victoria Park Pharmacy in Dorchester extended and the robot installed. Pictures: Black Circle/Dorset Council