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A community in Richmond upon Thames who went nearly 18 months without a pharmacy following the closure of two Boots branches celebrated the opening of an independent at the weekend.

The Hampton Pharmacy opened its doors on Saturday after months of campaigning by residents and local councillors, who expressed concerns the health and wellbeing of people in Hampton North was being jeopardised because of a lack of pharmacy services.

The area had gone without a pharmacy since Boots closed branches in Tangley Park and Priory Road towards the end of 2023.

Liberal Democrat MP: Boots left the community in the lurch

The Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson (pictured), who was at the opening of the pharmacy in Tangley Park, Hampton, posted on X: “After Boots left the community in the lurch, it's been quite a campaign to secure a new, much-needed pharmacy.”

Boots declined to comment. Richmond Council said The Hampton Pharmacy will bring “much-needed healthcare support at a time when many local chemists across the country are closing their doors”.

Councillor Piers Allen, chair of the Council’s adult social services health and housing committee, said: “At a time when many areas are losing their local pharmacies, we are very pleased to see a new one opening in Hampton North.

“Pharmacies are a lifeline for many people, especially those managing long term conditions or needing accessible advice and treatment close to home.

“This is a fantastic development that will support the local community, improve access to care and help relieve pressure on GPs. In many ways, this new opening truly bucks the national trend.”

Liberal Democrat councillor for Hampton North Elizabeth Gant posted on X: “The whole community in Hampton will welcome this new independent business and health care provision. Thank you Munira Wilson and Healthwatch Richmond and all of the residents who campaigned for a new pharmacy after Boots closed two shops in Hampton in 2023.”

Image: www.parliament.uk