UCLan seeks permission to build vet school

The University of Central Lancashire is seeking permission to build a new 45,00 sq ft, four-storey vet school in Preston.

The school would be the first of its kind in the county and only the 11th dedicated veterinary school in the UK. It would comprise anatomical skills laboratories and simulated clinical facilities, including a pharmacy, diagnostic suite, operating theatres, teaching rooms and office space.

It will provide a hub for undergraduate and postgraduate course students and staff in veterinary medicine, bioveterinary science, veterinary clinical practice, veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation, and clinical animal behaviour and training.

Part of the proposed development work also includes the renovation of the Greenbank Building on Victoria Street, which will contain consultation rooms, a rehabilitation suite, kennels and additional veterinary teaching facilities.

A planning application has been submitted to Preston City Council by real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield on UCLan's behalf.

Once completed, the new development will achieve sufficient credits for the building to qualify for a BREEAM Excellent rating. If planning permission is granted, construction work is expected to start in March 2023 and be complete by September 2024.

Dr Heather Bacon, head of UCLan’s School of Veterinary Medicine, said: "The planning application takes us closer to achieving our ambition to create a technologically advanced veterinary school. The new school will play a major role in developing the veterinary practitioners and leaders of the future and supporting economic growth in the north.

“We’re incredibly excited to open the first Vet School in Lancashire, which will offer students state-of-the-art training facilities, and the highest of education and professional standards.”