Work underway on new cattle handling facility on Harper Adams Future Farm

Posted 27 June 2024

A major project is underway to create a new facility at Harper Adams University that will enable students to gain hands-on experience working with cattle.

The new cattle handling facility will extend the dairy at Harper Adams, with the Welshpool-based SWG Construction leading the project.

Harper Adams Future Farm Director Richard Hooper said the development - which the Kildare Trust has generously provided funding towards - would greatly benefit students.

He said: “To support the safe and effective training of veterinary science students, Harper Adams University is investing in a new cattle handling facility.

“The relevant practical elements of the course involving cattle can be taught and practised by groups and individuals in a carefully designed system that maintains a calm and safe environment - for both the students and the cattle.”

Julian Kirkham, Director at SWG Construction, said: “We are delighted to be working with Harper Adams on this project, which will make a big difference to the way the university delivers its teaching of veterinary science.

“Work has already started on the extension to the leading dairy, and it’s an exciting project.

“Our teams will be carrying out a huge range of work, including the installation of concrete foundations, flooring, and the provision of a new steel frame open-side structure with a mono-pitched roof.

“We will be constructing rooms for veterinary functions, roof and wall coverings, gate and fencing solutions and all associated mechanical and electrical service installations inside and outside the building area.

“We would like to say thank you to Harper Adams University for trusting us with such an important project and are looking forward to getting on with the job.”