Wilson Mason’s vet school plans get go-ahead

Four storey block for University of Central Lancashire targets BREEAM “excellent” ratingWilson Mason Architecture and Design has secured planning permission for Lancashire’s first vet school.Its plans for the University of Central Lancashire will deliver a 4,180sq m facility that will be only the second dedicated veterinary school in the north of England.The building is targeting a BREEAM “excellent” rating and will house world-class clinical simulation and teaching spaces including a diagnostic suite, simulated operating theatres, and cutting-edge technology.Heather Bacon, head of UCLan’s School of Veterinary Medicine, said the block at the university’s Preston campus would be complete by the end of September 2024.“We’re delighted Preston City Council has approved our state-of-the-art plan,” she said.“Our new School of Veterinary Medicine will play a major role in developing the veterinary practitioners and leaders of the future and supporting economic growth in the north.”Wilson Mason specialises in designing science and education facilities and has offices in London and Samlesbury, near Preston.Partner Alan Williams said the new veterinary school would be both sustainable and give UCLan the ability to add social benefit to Lancashire and beyond.Part of the proposed development work includes the renovation of UCLan’s Greenbank Building, on Victoria Street in Preson, which will contain consultation rooms, a rehabilitation suite, kennels and additional veterinary teaching facilities.