RCVS starts process of selling current Belgravia premises
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, currently based in Belgravia, are seeking a new location for their headquarters.
The decision to start the process of relocation was agreed at the RCVS Council’s meeting in November and will be managed by former RCVS President, Barry Johnson.
A projected increase in staff numbers and a need for building modernisation has justified the move from 62-64 Horseferry Road, where the RCVS has been based for 25 years. Due to the current building being in a conservation area, granted planning permission for an extension would be unlikely.
RCVS chief executive, Lizzie Lockett, stated: “For a number of years it has become apparent that it is fast approaching the time at which our current premises will no longer be fit for purpose due to an increase in the number of RCVS staff – something that is projected to continue in the future… Even putting our need for increased space on one side, Belgravia House requires major refurbishment in key areas such as air-conditioning and lifts, which would require staff to vacate the premises for up to 18 months, which would be costly and disruptive.
“We are therefore pleased that Council has recognised the need for the College to move somewhere that better reflects our needs and, over the coming months, we will be exploring a number of different options for new premises.”
Image (c) RCVS
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
