New Planned Parenthood Health Center Approved by Richmond City Council

Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Richmond City Council on Monday unanimously approved the use of a Chamberlayne Avenue property owned by the city for a new Planned Parenthood Center.

City leaders voted to approve an ordinance that will allow the Virginia League for Planned Parenthood (VLPP) to build a facility at 4929 Chamberlayne Avenue – a building that was once a school.

Officials said the property has a leaky roof, mold, lead paint and asbestos, among other issues. It will be demolished to allow for the new construction.

Once built, the Planned Parenthood facility will be the third clinic in Richmond to provide abortions.

Ahead of Monday’s vote, dozens of Richmond area residents came to the podium to share their thoughts on the proposed use of the building. Some who were opposed to the ordinance cited their religion, others contended that the building could be used in other ways, such as a homeless shelter or other resource center.

Many of those in favor of the facility said they were Planned Parenthood patients. They added that they believed the healthcare provided by these clinics to be high-quality.