Transformation of a Grade II Listed Barn For Yorkshire’s Most Iconic Veterinary Practice.

When Donaldson's Vets sought to expand their practice, they found the perfect location—an historic Grade II listed barn. The challenge? Retaining the building’s character while transforming it into a modern veterinary facility.

 As principal contractor, NU Construction was entrusted with this delicate balance, ensuring the barn’s rich heritage remained intact while delivering a fully functional, high-spec veterinary practice.

The Project: Blending Old with New

✔ Structural Works Completed:

• Stripped out the existing barn, underpinned internal and external walls for stability.
• Carefully rebuilt the outer gable wall in new stone, while propping and preserving the inner gable.
• Removed, re-felted, and relaid the  roof slates

✔ New Entrances & Windows:

• Built a new front reception area in reclaimed stone to blend with the original aesthetic.
• Installed new windows and entrance doors throughout the building for a refreshed yet authentic look.

 ✔ Internal Fit-Out:

• Created a full mezzanine floor, dividing spaces into:
• Operating theatres
• Dental surgery
• Consultation and X-ray rooms
• Dedicated cat and dog wards
• Staff canteen and offices
• New plant room upstairs

✔ External Works:

• Installed new storm drains (internal & external) to future-proof the site.
• Restored the original cobbles, formed new parking areas with grass, and built a new stone wall in keeping with the surroundings.

Delivering Quality with Care

This project wasn’t just about construction, it was about preserving history while building for the future. The result? A state-of-the-art veterinary practice that stays true to its historic roots.

Martin Paterson, Director of Donaldson's Vets Ltd said:

 I would just like to add my thanks to the whole design and construction team who have worked tirelessly on the project. It certainly hasn't been an easy build but we really do appreciate the efforts that everyone has gone to and the approach that has been taken when the building has tried to bite us.

The end result is something which everyone should justifiably be very proud of.