Modern cat adoption centre taking shape in St Helens
Construction is well under way to build a state-of-the art cat centre in the heart of Merseyside, where around 600 cats a year will start their adoption journeys.
Cats Protection is opening a new cat centre in St Helens to replace its current one in Chester Lane. Built more than 50 years ago, the old site is no longer fit for purpose and has become increasingly expensive to maintain.
The new premises in Wilcox Road will work in tandem with the charity’s Warrington Cat Centre, offering modern pens for homeless cats awaiting adoption, ensuring staff and volunteers can deliver excellent care as well as providing a vastly improved experience for cats, adopters, staff and volunteers.
Wigan-based construction and design firm Truline Construction & Interior Services has begun work to transform an empty warehouse in Old Boston Trading Estate into a modern centre which will strengthen Cats Protection’s presence in Merseyside.
The spacious design will allow more people across the local community to join the dedicated team of cat‑loving volunteers, helping support even more cats and adopters throughout the region.
The new centre will have 31 pens, matching the current site. Modern facilities and additional space will reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and minimise any periods when the centre must temporarily close for isolation or deep cleaning.
Sonia Scowcroft, Community Operations Manager, said: “It has been challenging for staff and volunteers to work from the current Merseyside Cat Centre, which has become increasingly worn out, but they continue to do everything possible to ensure the needs of the cats in care are being met.
“It was fantastic to see the work coming along at the new site and everyone is excited for the move, knowing it will be a great for our vulnerable cats but also a bright, inviting and accessible place to work and welcome visitors.”
Mike Hyde, Managing Director at Truline Construction & Interior Services, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Cats Protection on the delivery of the new Merseyside Cat Centre in St Helens.
“Transforming the existing warehouse into a modern, purpose-built adoption facility will create a welcoming and high-quality environment for both the cats in care and the dedicated staff, volunteers and adopters who support the centre.
“As a Northwest business, it is particularly rewarding to deliver a project that will have such a positive impact within the local community. We look forward to seeing the new centre become a fantastic new home for cats awaiting adoption across the region.”