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Glasshouse relocation completed to help inspire next generation of growers at Kent college

CambridgeHOK have completed a unique project to relocate a complete glasshouse - ensuring it can be used to help inspire the next generation of growers at Hadlow College in Kent.

The 768m2 Venlo structure was originally built by our teams and installed at another site a few years ago.

However, following a takeover by the North Kent College Group, it had to be methodically deconstructed piece by piece and transferred to the current main campus site in Hadlow.

Work started in mid-January, with the site handed over to the college this month, ahead of the new term in September.

Elliot Wrightson, Project Manager for CambridgeHOK, said: “This has been a unique job for us as it is very rare to move a full glasshouse structure and all its components from one site to another. It required detailed planning and excellent communication throughout between the various teams involved.

“Given the challenges faced, including periods working on two sites at once, the move has gone pretty much seamlessly and our client has been highly satisfied with our work, and the completed glasshouse.

“It has been good to be able to work on a project which can help inspire the next generation of growers as the glasshouse will support the college’s horticultural students in their studies, preparing them for potential careers in the industry.”

CambridgeHOK had to label and store thousands of parts as they were removed piece by piece, ensuring the glasshouse could be rebuilt as quickly as possible, and ahead of the new term.

After being transported to the new site it was rebuilt with new irrigation tanks and light pollution screens added to improve performance.

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