Market Cross Veterinary Clinic Extension

Project Brief

Elite Systems was directly appointed by Market Cross Veterinary Clinic to design, manufacture, and install a high-quality modular extension to the front of their existing premises. The clinic identified an urgent need to expand their clinical capacity to meet growing patient demand, while maintaining full operational continuity and minimising disruption to both staff and visiting pet owners.

The project scope involved the delivery of a fully prefabricated modular building, purpose-built to house two additional consultation rooms, a welcoming entrance lobby, and an internal link that seamlessly connects the new space with the existing clinic.

With speed of delivery and access compliance being critical to the client, a modern modular solution was selected in place of a previously approved traditional bricks-and-mortar extension. This approach enabled significantly faster project turnaround and a far less intrusive build process, key considerations for a busy, customer-facing veterinary practice.

Elite Systems worked closely with the client from concept to completion, ensuring the new extension met all clinical, regulatory, and aesthetic requirements, while integrating smoothly with the original structure. The result is a flexible and functional addition that supports the clinic’s continued growth and commitment to high-quality animal care.

CCS Supplier, Considerate Constructors, Investors in People, ISO

The Main Features

Outside

Western Red Cedar Cladding – Natural, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, installed on 50 x 25mm softwood battens to deliver a modern, welcoming façade.
Anthracite Powder-Coated Aluminium Doors & Windows – Low maintenance and visually striking, matching the client’s existing building aesthetics.
Platform Access Lift – Electrically controlled platform lift enabling unassisted access to the building, installed in place of the removed ramp to meet accessibility standards.
Access Steps and Entrance Landing – Providing safe and clear entry to the new modular extension.
Low-Impact Foundations – Shallow padfoundation system designed to minimiseground disturbance and reduce constructiontime, tailored to the tight footprint andproximity to live services.
Discrete Rainwater Goods – Gutters anddownpipes in matching anthracite finishes,integrated to manage stormwater effectivelywhile maintaining clean aesthetics.

Inside

Two Consultation Rooms – Purpose-built, private spaces fitted with durable flooring and integrated plumbing for clinical use.
Entrance Lobby & Waiting Area – Comfortable and functional entrance zone offering an immediate connection to the main veterinary building.
Internal Building Link – New doorway and connection seamlessly linking the modular space to the clinic’s main reception.
18mm Wisa Plywood Flooring – Designed to meet a 3kN floor loading, offering resilience and long-term durability.
Sink & Plumbing Provision – Installation of plumbing for one sink and tap, fully integrated into the turnkey scope.
Clinical-Grade Wall & Ceiling Finishes – Easy-to-clean, hygienic surfaces chosen for infectioncontrol and long-term performance in aveterinary healthcare environment.

Challenges & how we overcame them

The removal of the existing disabled access ramp created an immediate requirement for a fully compliant, user-friendly alternative that met the demands of a busy veterinary practice. Working within a tightly constrained footprint at the front of the building, Elite Systems designed and installed a compact
electrically controlled platform lift to enable independent access for all users including those with mobility aids, prams, and service animals. The lift was selected and configured to comply with Part M and DDA guidance, providing a safe, reliable and unobtrusive solution that complemented the building’s new entrance. Precision groundworks, weatherproofing, and connection to the modular threshold were all handled as part of the turnkey package, with no disruption to the clinic’s
accessibility during installation.

One of the most technically demanding elements ofthe project was the integration of the modularextension with the existing veterinary practice —particularly regarding mechanical, electrical, and fire protection systems. Elite’s design and siteteams worked closely with the client and consultantsto identify suitable access points for utilities, ensuringthat all connections including plumbing for the new sink, lighting, heating, and ventilation were made without compromising the clinic’s livesystems. The new internal link doorway wasconstructed to align precisely with the existingentrance layout, preserving circulation space andensuring airtightness and fire compartmentation were maintained. The seamless finish between thetwo structures ensures the extension feels like anatural part of the original building.

The clinic remained operational throughout the entire programme, necessitating a construction strategy that minimised disturbance, protected public safety, and maintained veterinary operations. All works including demolition ofthe existing ramp, lift installation, groundworks, and module positioning were carefully sequenced to avoid blocking key access routes. A temporary client access path was established atthe rear of the building, supported by signage and staff communication, allowing the front area to become a controlled construction zone. Daily coordination between Elite’s site team and the clinic ensured activities such as deliveries, noisy works, or equipment movements were timed to avoid peak operating hours and client handovers. This careful planning enabled theproject to move forward safely and efficiently,without impacting the client’s service delivery.

Veterinary clinics serve a uniquely sensitive population both animals and their owners. Throughout the build, Elite took proactive steps to minimise noise, vibration, and disruption,preserving a calm and professional atmosphere.Construction activities were scheduled around appointment patterns, with loud works isolated to quieter times or undertaken using lower-impact methods wherever possible. All operatives were briefed on the need for low-noise conduct and tidy working, particularly near waiting and consultation areas. The use of off-site prefabrication significantly reduced the typical on-site disruption associated with conventional builds, helping to preserve animal welfare, protect client trust, and support the clinic’s commitment to high-quality care.

Blueprint for Success

Elite Systems GB delivered a full turnkey service, managing the project from initial design and planning through off-site fabrication and rapid installation.

While the modular building was manufactured in a controlled environment, foundation works and site preparation proceeded in parallel, shortening the programme.

The six-week on-site phase included all groundworks, service connections, and final fit-out delivered without any interruption to veterinary services.

The Results

The modular extension has transformed the client’s entrance and clinical facilities, providing a calm, spacious, and welcoming environment for patients, owners, and staff. The added consultation rooms and waiting area have increased the clinic’s capacity, reduced congestion, and improved service flow all without the client having to close or reduce its operations at any stage.

Seamlessly linked to the existing practice, the new space is fully accessible, energy-efficient, and built using durable materials selected to meet healthcare standards. With modern aesthetics including Western Red Cedar cladding and Anthracite aluminium detailing, the extension also enhances the clinic’s street presence and brand image.

Through modular delivery, Elite Systems enabled the client to meet immediate growth needs, avoid the disruption of a lengthy traditional build, and achieve lasting value with a future-ready solution.

Key Outcomes: