Shanklin Pharmacy Opens New Premises After Major Move

A Shanklin pharmacy has opened the doors to its new home after more than 100,000 boxes of medication were moved across the road over the weekend.

Regent Pharmacy has relocated from its smaller premises to the former Toymaster shop at 70-74 Regent Street.

The move follows a three-year project involving thousands of hours of work and more than £500,000 of investment.

Owner Gary Warner says preparations went "down to the wire", with the team working until 10pm on Sunday before returning at 5am on Monday to complete the move.

A total of 117,000 boxes were transferred to the new premises.

Mr Warner said the first couple of hours after opening were "exceptionally challenging" because of problems with printers and the changeover of the telephone system.

He praised the pharmacy's IT support for resolving the printer issues within 45 minutes, while also thanking his staff for dealing with the pressures of opening day.

The larger premises are designed to improve patient flow and allow customers to sit down, while also providing new facilities for staff.

Customers visiting on the first morning included 94-year-old Harry Janes, who praised the appearance of the new pharmacy and its customer service.

However, he said the new building was noisier than the previous branch, making it more difficult for him to hear himself speak.

Marion Hawes, from Apse Heath, also praised the new premises, particularly the increased space for queuing.

The plans for the move began in June 2023 when Regent Pharmacy signed the lease on the new site.

Structural and building work followed, including insulation, waterproofing and new flooring.

Mr Warner has thanked neighbouring businesses and residents for their support during the project.

He says new services will be announced gradually over the coming weeks.