Rather unexpected explore this one after being kicked out of another location, this was next on the list! Not to everyone’s taste but good for a little mooch around none-the-less. As always here’s a little history on the place sourced on the interwebs.
“The UK pig industries Development Unit, just outside Stotfold in Bedfordshire was opened by Lord Belstead, Minister of State (Lords), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Foods in November 1984.
Over the years it underwent many changes but was always at the forefront of research firmly aimed at delivery of practical opportunities, work which could be quickly disseminated and implemented on working pig farms.
At its peak the unit employed 10 staff and had 300 sows. However major changes in the industry and a fundamental shift in the strategy of the British Pig Executive (BPEX) meant it was no longer needed and over the last six months of its life was gradually wound down
The final piece of research work was completed in May 2007, and the site closed sometime in July 2007
A BPEX Director of Pig Industry Development said at the time: “Stotfold has been a huge asset to the industry over the years and we are sad to see it go. “BPEX carried out a major review of its research and development and unfortunately Stotfold didn’t fit into the new perspective.”
