Duncan and Todd Whitehall branch opens in temporary site

An optometry practice in Dundee has opened the doors to its new temporary home a month after an external fire caused the practice to close.

The Whitehall branch of Duncan and Todd closed in January following an external fire that caused “extensive damage” to the practice.

According to local news reports, several properties in the city centre were affected after bins were set alight in alleyways on either side of Whitehall Street.

The practice had only opened in May 2025 after an extensive refurbishment.

Mat Norris, CEO of Duncan and Todd, told OT: “While the fire damage at our Whitehall Dundee branch was a significant and unexpected challenge, our absolute priority was ensuring our patients continued to receive the care they need.”

When it became clear that the practice would not be able to operate safely, a project team was established to discuss alternative arrangements, Norris said. This included increasing testing at neighbouring branches in Broughty Ferry and Perth.

Duncan and Todd

The original practice received significant fire damage

Sharing that the team has shown “incredible resilience throughout, Norris said: “I couldn’t be prouder of how our team responded. They worked incredibly hard to find solutions quickly, so patients were supported without delay.”

Norris explained: “Once it was established that the refurbishment would take some time the team quickly sprung into action and sought alternative premises.”

I am very proud of the team and that we were back serving the Dundee community a month after the fire

The practice team has now reopened at a new temporary location in the Flour Mill on Exchange Street.

Norris said that this location is easily accessible in the heart of Dundee city centre, with public transport links, drop-off access at the door and parking close by.

He said: “I am very proud of the team and that we were back serving the Dundee community a month after the fire.”

Duncan and Todd

The practice has reopened in a temporary location

Reflecting on the challenges faced by the practice and the subsequent reopening, Norris said: “This experience really highlights who we are as a business. We’re deeply committed to the communities we serve, and when challenges arise, we focus on solutions and patient care.”

“We want the Dundee community to know that we are here, we are open, and we remain fully committed to supporting their eye and hearing care needs at our Flour Mill, Exchange Street, city centre location,” he concluded.