A FORMER doctors’ surgery will be transformed into a new home.

The Harbours Medical Practice announced in December 2021 that the Longniddry branch surgery would be permanently closing.

At that time, the medical practice stated that it was able to offer a better level of care from the central surgery in Cockenzie, which has undergone renovations.

Now, Mr and Ms S Williamson and Otazua Gonzalez have had planning permission granted to transform the vacant building on Longniddry’s Forthview Road.

The building, which was previously home to a reception area and two consultation rooms, will now feature two bedrooms, alongside an open-plan lounge and kitchen and bathroom.

Other alterations are planned for the building, including moving the front door and changing the size of the windows at the rear.

The changes attracted no objections from the public or East Lothian Council’s planning department.

According to the planning officer’s report: “The proposed altered existing window and door openings within the building are of a scale, form and proportion appropriate to the existing building and would not by their location and scale, proportions and external finish have an appreciable effect on the character and appearance of the building or surrounding area.”

When it was announced that the surgery would be closing, Marilyn Young, of Longniddry Community Council, said: “We are extremely saddened and disappointed that the decision has already been made to close the Longniddry satellite surgery without consultation with the residents of Longniddry. We consider this to be a very valuable resource that we are losing.”