Spotlight on Stirling: City Beach Veterinary Clinic – a strategic move to Stirling
City Beach Veterinary Clinic has supported local families since 1991. In 2004, veterinarians Alan Wade and Neville Robertson took ownership and have led the clinic ever since.
Their biggest operational shift came when their original premises were scheduled for demolition. The challenge was to relocate without losing visibility, momentum or client confidence.
Alan and Neville chose a new site on Scarborough Beach Road in Doubleview. The location offered steady daily traffic, easy parking and kept them close to their coastal client base. “We wanted a place people pass through anyway, where parking is simple and nearby shops make it easy to combine visits,” Alan says.
Early conversations with the City’s Economic Development and Planning teams helped them understand requirements and timelines before construction began. “We knew we needed good visibility and parking access, and the City explained what had to happen,” Alan says.
Operations that stay consistent
The clinic maintained its operating model throughout the move. Consultations run six days a week, with early starts and extended weekday hours. Saturday appointments support working households.
A modern theatre, on‑site imaging and a comprehensive laboratory reduce delays and minimise return visits. For complex cases, longer consultations are booked to allow proper discussion and planning. “People value quick answers and a clear path,” Alan says. “Our job is to make both possible.”
Culture by design
Alan and Neville recruit for both capability and temperament, prioritising a calm, practical approach to care. “We care about animals and we care about owners, and we also need to care for the team who do the work,” Alan says. The new premises reflects that philosophy “Creating a dedicated quiet area gives staff space to reset and helps everyone bring their best to the next consult,” Alan explained.
Key takeaways for businesses planning a move
- Choose a high‑traffic corridor to support long‑term visibility
- Locate within an established local centre
- Engage with the City early to receive clear guidance and avoid delays
- Maintain core processes so clients experience continuity
- Design for staff as well as customers as a supported team delivers better service.
City Beach Veterinary Clinic didn’t reinvent itself through relocation. It chose a street that works, a centre that fits and a model that keeps its promises. Under Alan and Neville’s leadership, the clinic continues to pair consistent operations with a culture that supports animals, owners and the people who care for them.
Inside the new clinic, the team kept their practical model intact: on‑site diagnostics, early weekday openings and Saturday appointments. Longer consults are available for complex cases so owners can make informed decisions without feeling rushed.
A people‑first culture
The clinic’s culture remains central. “We look after animals and we look after people,” Alan says. “That includes our staff, so we made sure there’s space for them to take a breather when the job gets tough.”
- Prioritise the corridor, not just the building
- Engage planners early to avoid delays
- Maintain core processes so clients experience continuity
- Design spaces that support staff as well as customers.
City Beach Veterinary Clinic’s relocation wasn’t reinvention — it was a strategic move that kept the business visible, stable and aligned with its values.
Visit the City Beach Veterinarians to learn more.
Spotlight on Stirling showcases the people and businesses shaping our local economy. Each feature highlights the stories, ideas and experiences behind businesses operating in the City of Stirling, celebrating success and innovation. Local businesses are encouraged to contact us to share their story and inspire others.
