A FAMILY dental surgery has been sold for the first time since 1989.

Specialist business property adviser Christie and Co has announced the sale of Halton Lodge Dental Surgery in Runcorn.

Founded by Dr Shailesh Kotecha in 1989, the dentists is an NHS practice which provides good quality family dentistry to patients in the town.

Shailesh recently decided to sell to pursue a well-earned retirement, and following a confidential sales process with Christie and Co, and with funding sourced through Christie Finance, it has been bought by first-time buyer, Hassan Anwar.

Jonathan Watson, a director at Christie and Co who handled the sale, said: “Despite the challenges many operators are facing at present, there is no let-up in demand for mixed practices.

“This sale generated significant interest, including seven viewings from bank-funded first-time buyers and existing operators.

“I am extremely pleased for Shailesh, who will be able to enjoy a well-earned retirement after providing the area with high levels of patient care for more than 30 years.”

Alena Ray, a director at Christie Finance who sourced funding for the buyer, added: “Halton Lodge Dental Surgery is a great opportunity, and I am pleased to have secured a funding solution for Hassan that has enabled him to buy his first practice in the midst of a volatile funding market.

“I wish him all the best and feel confident that his plans for Halton Lodge will take the business to greater success.”

Halton Lodge Dental Surgery was sold for an undisclosed price.