Teaching and clinical research facility to be finished by summer of next year
Construction work is due to start next month on a £45 million School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Surrey.
Leading construction firm BAM has been appointed for the project which will see three new buildings at the university's Guildford campus.
The new school will be used both for the teaching of veterinary medicine, and for clinical research. Work is due to be completed by the summer next year.
State-of-the-art research laboratories built to the highest levels of biosecurity, will feature within a 7,150sqm academic building with offices and flexible teaching space. There will also be a central atrium hosting a café, reception and administrative facilities.
High containment teaching and research labs will be included in a 2,500 sqm animal management centre.
Finally a 1,500sqm clinical skills building, will feature an animal examination area.
Architects have included sustainability features with naturally ventilated offices and teaching spaces, and an atrium roof shaped to guide rising air into the plant room for heat extraction.
BAM will look to involve students in the construction project to provide learning opportunities.
Prof Lisa Roberts, executive dean of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, said: "We are pleased to be partnering with BAM Construction to deliver this major project for the University of Surrey.
"The construction of this site will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment for the next generation of veterinarians, and world-class facilities that will benefit the entire university community."
Construction manager Anthony Nagle said: "BAM is delighted to have been chosen for this major scheme at the University of Surrey.
"We look forward to creating top-class facilities for students, teachers and clinicians and - just as importantly - to ensuring the project benefits the regional veterinary community by providing lifelong learning facilities, research and commercial opportunities to work with the University."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
