Royal Veterinary College

Summary

Overview

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), ranked the world’s number one veterinary school in the QS World University Rankings 2023, is a global leader in veterinary medicine, biosciences, and veterinary nursing.

Since 2010, Whitestar have been working alongside RVC to offer them tailored solutions across all their sites – Hatfield and Camden – and beyond. From refurbishments and installations to testing and maintenance, this ongoing relationship has developed into a strong, bond between the two organisations. With five more years to go in RVC’s 10-year plan, more exciting projects are on the horizon.

Challenge

Established in 1791, Royal Veterinary College is the largest and longest-standing veterinary school in the 88 English-speaking countries in the world. With two campuses located in Hatfield and Camden, along with an active farm in Brookmans Park, RVC has 67 buildings, an equestrian centre, a hospital, and offices. Having such a wide range of premises means it’s crucial that all electrical and data solutions are running smoothly and everything is done right.

Across both sites, RVC has approximately 2,500 students, and around 1,000 staff members. Their safety is the top priority for Whitestar. As a leading college with an unmatched reputation, known for their innovative approach to teaching, RVC needed the highest possible standards of maintenance and highest quality outcome. The reliability of their buildings and systems is essential, so as to not disrupt the important work they’re undertaking. As well as this, RVC has many buildings with rich histories, dating all the way back to 1791. These buildings must be worked on with care, consideration, and with their historical importance in mind at all times.

Solution

To ensure the safety of all staff, students and visitors, Whitestar have spent the last 15 years providing all electrical and data for RVC, carrying out emergency lighting testing, PAT testing, and attending emergency call outs.

Whitestar have also been involved in five years of refurbishing RVC’s historical buildings, providing any electrical and data work needed. As part of a 10-year refurbishment plan which is now half-way complete, RVC and Whitestar are currently working together (alongside contractors) on their most recent project – completely demolishing and rebuilding a college campus building.

Of course, like any project, unexpected delays have occurred due to issues not identified on surveys, material delays and delivery issues. However, with many years of experience dealing with these industry issues, Whitestar have kept projects on track and the relationship with Royal Veterinary College continues to bloom.