Harrison & Hetherington, one of the UK’s largest livestock trading companies, sought to expand its Borderway auction facility in Carlisle to accommodate growth and improve operational efficiency. The project focused on creating a better environment for both animals and traders through improved structural design and mechanical and electrical services. PSA delivered comprehensive M&E design solutions that addressed challenges with ageing infrastructure while supporting the client’s vision for a modern livestock trading hub. The new buildings feature enhanced airflow, increased natural light, and efficient systems that prioritise animal welfare.
CLIENT: Harrison and Hetherington
LOCATION: Carlisle, Cumbria
VALUE: £1.1
COMPLETED: April 2025
SERVICES: Mechanical & Electrical Design
RIBA STAGES: 3-4
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Harrison & Hetherington needed to develop its Borderway Mart complex in Carlisle to support its growth as one of the UK’s largest livestock trading hubs. The primary goal was to enhance the environment for both livestock and traders by creating more spacious areas with improved airflow and natural light penetration. The client specifically wanted a higher and wider roof design to achieve these environmental improvements while also increasing operational efficiency throughout the complex. As a farmer-owned company with ambitious expansion plans, H&H Group were committed to maintaining Borderway’s reputation as a leading national livestock trading centre. The client faced particular challenges with its ageing services infrastructure and needed solutions that would integrate with and enhance the existing systems while supporting its animal welfare objectives.
OUR SOLUTION
PSA developed comprehensive mechanical and electrical design solutions tailored to the specialised needs of a modern livestock trading facility. Working closely with H&H Group through RIBA Stages 3-4, we crafted designs that complemented the architectural vision for higher, wider roofing while addressing the practical requirements of the space.
- Water points throughout the extension for cleaning and animal drinking water
- Energy-efficient lighting schemes balancing natural daylight with supplementary illumination for trading visibility
- Robust power distribution systems supporting operational equipment throughout the facility
- Integration solutions for connecting new services with the existing infrastructure
- Careful phasing of works to minimise disruption to ongoing trading activities
Our team navigated the challenges of the ageing existing services by conducting thorough surveys and developing practical strategies for upgrades that would provide reliable service for years to come. We ensured all designs complied with relevant agricultural and commercial building standards while meeting the client’s practical operational needs.
THE OUTCOME
The expanded Borderway facility now provides Harrison & Hetherington with significantly improved trading spaces that enhance both animal welfare and operational efficiency. The new buildings feature excellent natural lighting and water system, creating a more comfortable environment for livestock and traders alike. H&H Group now has the infrastructure in place to support its continuing growth and strengthen its position as one of the UK’s premier livestock trading hubs.
