A NEW pharmacy could open its doors in Haddington Retail Park.

GLM Romanes Ltd already has three pharmacies in East Lothian, including on Haddington's Market Street.

Now, the Duns-based business is exploring the possibility of taking on the remaining unit within the retail park, which opened last year.

Already, Haddington Retail Park is home to Costa Coffee, The Food Warehouse, Aldi and Home Bargains.

Construction work on a neighbouring petrol station, with shop, is also well under way.

GLM Romanes Ltd would like to apply to NHS Lothian to open the pharmacy offering the full range of services.

Pat Lemmon, vice-chairwoman of Haddington and District Community Council, could see the benefits of a pharmacy being located in the retail park.

She said: “I suppose for people who may have walking difficulties it is ideal for them and for the new houses, but I would hate to think it was taking away any business from the unique little pharmacies and Boots we have in the High Street.

“For the people staying in the area, it would be convenient.”

Councillor Tom Trotter, who represents the town on East Lothian Council, felt there were positives to the idea, including the close proximity to the East Lothian Community Hospital.

He said: “First and foremost, obviously the fact that the building would be getting used is good.

“It has been empty since the retail park opened and there would be an opportunity for two or three jobs I would imagine.”

Before an application can be received, regulations require that NHS Lothian and GLM Romanes Ltd carry out a joint consultation with people living in the area.

The closing date for comments in the consultation is August 2.

From there, a hearing could take place at the end of 2022 or early next year before deciding if the proposals should move further forward.

The remaining unit at the retail park is 1,500 square feet and has planning permission for class three use – food and drink.

A planning application would need to be submitted to East Lothian Council before any proposals got the go ahead.

At that time, members of the public would also get the chance to have their say on the idea again.

Details included within the consultation highlight the pharmacy could be open from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday.

It would then close at 1pm on a Sunday.

To take part in the consultation go to www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/services/pharmacies/newpharmacyapplications