Maitland City Council is considering an application to convert the 1880 Swan Street building into an animal medical facility. 

Council staff recommended that councillors approve an application to change the permitted use of the former post office and allow minor internal changes and signs to accommodate a vet clinic.

Williams River Veterinary has lodged the application to open the surgery, which would employ one vet and two other staff members.

Cr Philip Penfold said permanent occupants in the heritage building would give the site the best chance for continuous maintenance.

He expected a vet clinic could occupy the building for the medium to long term.

“I think it’s a good thing for Morpeth,” he said.

“A great building like that can fall into disrepair without occupancy.

“It’s all well and good to say owners should look after it, but without constant tenants, maintenance can fall by the wayside.”

Cr Penfold said the site’s location, near William Street, did not suit a business that relied on passing foot traffic for trade. 

“The location of the building is quite remote from the shopping village,” he said.

“A destination business, like a vet clinic, is what is needed at the site.”

According to the plans, the clinic will contain one consulting room, with medicine to be stored in the former mail room.  It will open between 8am and 6pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm on Saturday.

A five-space car park is also planned for the rear of the property.