Look local: Optical house of York is thriving

York has been a politically significant city since the Romans named it the capital of ‘Lower Britain’, largely due to its geographical location at the confluence of the rivers Ouse and Foss. Within the ancient walls of the modern populous are a number of practitioners that have chosen to establish business in this compact urban community with a sophisticated cultural scene, retail centres and a large Russell Group university.

Trevor Rowley, also managing director of practice management software provider, Optix, runs Viewpoint Opticians near the city’s famous cathedral. The independent decided to resign from NHS treatments seven years ago.

‘It became apparent that we could not deliver the standards of service and care that we aspired to within the constraints of the NHS fee,’ says Rowley. ‘We did not feel comfortable offering a two tier structure. York has a comprehensive range of services available with all the usual multiples and some exceptionally good independents. We are successful as we appeal to those who want the best and are prepared to pay for this.’