Persimmon Homes West Midlands came up trumps when a makeshift Covid vaccination centre needed a hasty adaptation to make it fit for purpose.

The former dental surgery in Burntwood Road in Norton Canes, near Cannock has been put to use as a vaccination centre in the fight against coronavirus. While fully disability-friendly under normal conditions, the unique Covid requirements created a fresh headache.

Norton Canes Councillor, John Preece of Cannock Chase District Council said: “When converting the building for vaccinations, Nucare Pharmacy had to create a new temporary exit at the back of the property to comply with Covid distancing regulations. This created an issue for our wheelchair users, as there are no dropped kerbs at the rear.

“Fearing that this could delay our vaccination programme, I contacted Persimmon Homes,” added Cllr Preece. “They have a housing development underway nearby, called Norton Hall Meadow, so I thought it was worth bringing the matter to their attention. No sooner had I done so, when the managing director Stephen Cleveley got in touch, very kindly offering to fund wheelchair kerb ramps, which has solved our problem. We are really grateful, on behalf of the community.”

Within days, the ramps were bought and put into position at the Centre, allowing the Covid vaccination programme to continue at full speed.

“When Cllr Preece explained the situation at the surgery, we knew we had to act quickly,” said Stephen Cleveley. “It’s very frustrating for a relatively minor practical issue to hold up such a vital vaccination roll-out, so we immediately sanctioned a special donation to acquire the necessary equipment.”

Persimmon Homes is currently building on Norton Hill Lane in Norton Canes, near Cannock. The Norton Hall Meadow development features a collection of 315 homes, offering home buyers a choice of two, three, four and five bedroom properties.