A BLACKPOOL medical company says it could hold a public meeting if its proposals for a clinic for recovering drug addicts on Whitegate Drive, Blackpool provoke concern amongst residents and traders.

Fylde Coast Medical Services Ltd (FCMS), the area's non-profit primary health care organisation, has applied to Blackpool Borough Council for planning permission to operate up to ten drug and substance misuse clinic sessions per week at 86 Whitegate Drive.

The clinics would be for patients with a "continuing commitment" to stop taking drugs, and patients would be seen by appointment only, FCMS said.

In an open letter sent to surrounding residents and businesses, FCMS said it was "aware of the concern being expressed within the local community" about the planning application.

"The directors fully understand that drug related issues always arouse concerns in any local area and that such projects may be detrimental to both the quality of life of residents and the trading of businesses," it said.

"Should it become clear that a public meeting would be of value, FCMS will make any necessary arrangements for senior managers to attend."

The proposed project would help fulfil government policy to reduce drug usage and any related criminal activity and provide "quality medical support to patients actively seeking to cease using drugs and substances", FCMS said.

The organisation is seeking permission to run clinics between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with initially six three-hour clinics per week, possibly increasing to ten weekly clinics on the first floor of 86 Whitegate Drive.

Patients would only be seen on a "pre-planned appointment basis" and drugs would not be kept on the premises.

FCMS also stressed that there was "no intention whatsoever, either now or in the future, to use 86 Whitegate Drive as a drop-in centre" and that other patients attending clinics, the rest of the building would be used only for administrative co-ordination.