A planning application for a new self-service touch screen prescription collection machine in Ballymoney has been approved by Causeway Coast and Glens Council.

The application by Matthewson Chemist, 51-53 Queen Street, Ballymoney, was for the “removal of existing ground floor shop front door and insertion of new self-service touch screen prescription collection machine”.

A self-service prescription collection machine works by having pharmacy staff load a prescription bag into the machine, where it's automatically scanned and linked to a specific locker or shelf.

The patient is then sent a unique PIN via text message. When the patient arrives, they enter the PIN on the machine's touchscreen, and the correct locker door opens for them to retrieve their medication at any time.

The planning application, which was first submitted in September by HERE Architects, said: “The proposal provides a service which can be used out of trading hours and enhances service delivery.”