Work has started on a new £2.4m Pet Wellbeing Centre in Manchester for leading veterinary charity PDSA.
Salford-based MC Construction is the main contractor for the scheme, which is scheduled for completion next summer.
The PDSA Manchester Pet Wellbeing Centre, The Montague-Panton Animal Hospital is being built at the junction of Pottery Lane and Redgate Lane in Gorton.
It will replace the PDSA’s current premises in Old Trafford, which the charity says is at breaking point.
The new complex will have two operating theatres, a specialist dental theatre, digital x-ray facilities and modern consulting rooms.
It will also feature a bigger, brighter waiting area with separate sections for cats and dogs, reducing the stress a visit to the vet can cause. There will be improved kennel facilities to allow pets to recover quicker from surgery and treatment in a better environment.
PDSA veterinary staff David Brookfield and Zoe Walton made the first dig to kick-start the project.
Veterinary nurse Zoe said: “We are all excited to see work start on our new Wellbeing Centre. PDSA provides a vital service for Manchester pet owners struggling to provide vet care for their pets.
“I’m delighted that work has started at the new site and I’m hoping this will inspire local animal lovers to help us raise the remaining funds we need. I can’t wait to see the doors open to the new hospital next year.”
PDSA unveiled plans for the scheme in March with the launch of a public appeal to raise £2.4m to build and equip it.
With the support of animal lovers, charity supporters, businesses and a significant donation from the Montague-Panton Animal Welfare Trust, building work has now begun. However, the charity still needs to raise funds and is continuing with its public appeal.
PDSA treats nearly 12,000 pets each year at its Old Trafford site, from emergency surgery to routine vaccinations and dental treatment.
David Lowe, managing director of MC Construction, said: “We are excited to begin work on this development and are delighted to be partnering with the PDSA team to deliver a high-quality facility for the Manchester pet community.
“Having two office dogs at MC Construction, we have a special place in our hearts for this project.”
