Work begins on new wildlife ‘Hogspital’ near Newquay

Construction is underway on a new purpose-built wildlife hospital for hedgehogs near Newquay. The £200,000 project will be the future home of Prickles and Paws Hedgehog Rescue, which has operated for years from a domestic setting in Cubert.

The new facility is located on the Carnanton Estate and is set to significantly increase capacity for hedgehog admissions. It will also provide more volunteering opportunities and, in time, a dedicated classroom to host educational visits. The project marks a major step forward for the charity, which has long outgrown its current base in the founders’ back garden.

Funding is already in place for the early stages of the build. Phase one includes surface drainage, the installation of a septic tank, and fencing to secure the site and protect it from deer. Local firm Warvena Construction is the main contractor. Work getting underway includes pile caps and the building base for what’s being called Building A.

Once complete, it will house a general hedgehog ward, an intensive care unit, maternity and pre-release hutches, a triage and veterinary room, a staff meeting area, and a reception space with accessible facilities. The grounds will also feature a wildflower meadow, native hedgerows, log piles, and bat boxes to promote local biodiversity. Solar panels are planned to help lower running costs and reduce the centre’s carbon footprint.

Completion of Building A is targeted for the end of 2025, with a move-in date set for early 2026 – typically the quietest period for hedgehog admissions. After that, the charity will look to raise funds for Building B, which would double intake capacity and expand education and training provision for students and veterinary professionals.

But the charity still needs financial support to finish the build. It's appealing for help with the fit-out, car park and landscaping. You can donate here.

Listen to our interview the charity's Chief Executive - John Lewis...