Changes in population can affect the need for pharmaceutical services. They may also alter the demand for certain services. Being aware of any future planned developments within the local area is important to allow you to react quickly. Planned developments can include housing developments, social care such as care homes or sheltered accommodation and even industry such as new industrial sites.

How can it be used?
A large planned development could mean a gap in provision of pharmaceutical services for these residents. This could be a gap you may be able to fill/support or it could potentially lead to another pharmacy opening.

The type of housing may also affect your service provision for example a large family development could alter your demographics from elderly to family and therefore require you to look at services aimed at families.

It may not be just housing. For example a new industrial estate, could potentially open up business to business services that you may have not previously explored. Likewise new care homes planned could be another opportunity to expand your services and gain new business.