SRUC to build new ‘world class’ poultry research centre

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) is to move its poultry research unit from Ayrshire to Midlothian, creating a “state of the art” centre in the process.

The new facility will be built on the Easter Bush Estate, just outside Edinburgh, which is already home to most of the college’s animal and veterinary scientists, over the next two years.

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SRUC’s poultry team undertakes a large amount of research for both government and private concerns, with particular focus on avian-related nutrition, welfare and the study of disease.

Its new facility will have “state of the art” poultry growing and production facilities, allowing research across the supply chain, said a statement released by the college.

Professor Geoff Simm, vice-principal research at SRUC, said the move would bring its poultry team closer to the Roslin Institute and Royal School of Veterinary facilities, and create a “world leading” reasearch facility.

Prof Simm added a consultation with staff would now begin to support the transition to the new site.

The new centre is scheduled for completion by 2018.