This challenging and exciting scheme made the best possible use of a difficult site. BDCH had purchased a larger plot of land in a neighbouring field, which was level and perfect for a new building, however, we were unable to obtain permission to build in this field as it generally moved the centre closer to the nearby built up area in the village.
New plans were designed and priced to build at the top of the hill. Inevitably to build on the heavily sloping site meant much higher construction costs for BDCH. One large building at the top of the hill presented far too many problems with regard to split levels, so the final design of two ‘L’ shaped buildings placed on top of the hill enabled at least the under-croft of Block One to be used as the cattery.
To enable the Centre to remain operational during construction, temporary kennelling facilities were installed for the duration of the works and the Contractor had a separate point of access for deliveries, plant and workmen to remove potential disturbance and conflict of use. Once completed, the existing staff accommodation building was refurbished and the temporary kennelling sold on to help another animal welfare charity, thereby allowing the full extent of the car park to be finished.