Westover Vets, which was founded in 1896, is one of the region’s largest independent vets, with four practices – including a 24-hour hospital – caring for more than 21,000 animals across Norfolk.
The business is currently developing its fifth practice, transforming a former motorhome sales garage into a state-of-the-art hub for small animal care.
The 8,300sf practice in Rollesby will create 10 new jobs and will diagnose and treat small animals, from cats and dogs to small reptiles and other exotic animals.
Solar panels will be used to provide energy for the entire practice, while three electric vehicle chargers are also being installed.
The business is extending its existing animal hospital in North Walsham – one of only two hospitals in the region – with a new wing.
The addition will include two new consultation rooms and greater kennel space. It will also feature a new CT scanner – a significant clinical advancement in state-of-the-art diagnosis.
Westover Vets has also used the funding from Lloyds Bank to drive its investment in the environment.
As a member of Investors in the Environment (iiE), it is committed to boosting local biodiversity and planted more than 1,800 trees and shrubs last month. The company also created two new ponds with surrounding wildland.
These efforts helped the business achieve the iiE award for Natural Environment Champion in 2022.
Following this latest investment drive over the last 18 months, Westover will have created 15 new jobs overall across its small animal team, an increase of more than 25 percent.
It is now also supporting its team to secure further skills, with surgeons and veterinarians currently undergoing qualifications in exotic animals, cardiology, ophthalmology, and CT diagnosis.