KAS Crane Hire: June Lifts at Paignton Zoo and Barnstaple
When you need reliable crane hire in the South West, no two months are ever quite the same. June has proved to be a classic example of this variety. Our team has been operating across Devon, tackling everything from high-stakes conservation projects to local residential developments.
Our cranes and operators have been on the move, keeping local projects on schedule and handling delicate loads with absolute precision. Two standout jobs from the past month show exactly what we do best.
How Do You Safely Lift a Rhino at Paignton Zoo?
One of our most unique tasks this month took us to Paignton Zoo. Moving a massive animal like a rhinoceros to a new enclosure is a complex logistical challenge that requires detailed planning.






Lifting a live animal in a specialised transport crate demands an incredibly smooth, quiet, and steady hand. Consequently, our team worked closely with zoo keepers and veterinary staff to make sure the transition was as stress-free as possible.
Using our highly controllable machinery, we lifted the crate with exact precision. We kept noise to an absolute minimum and ensured the movement was perfectly level. It is a fantastic example of how versatile our Devon-based fleet can be, even when the passenger is a multi-tonne rhino.
Onsite Lifting for New Homes in Barnstaple
Meanwhile, closer to home, we spent a busy few days working opposite the Tarka Leisure Centre in Barnstaple. This project was a classic construction-phase lift for a brand-new housing development.

For this job, we managed the onsite lifting of structural timber frames and steel beams. Working on a busy residential construction site requires tight adherence to safety standards. Because the site is located directly opposite a public leisure centre, controlling the working boundary was essential.
Our skilled operators positioned the heavy structural components exactly where the ground crews needed them. This allowed the building work to progress smoothly and without delay.
Why Local Knowledge Matters for Crane Hire Providers
Whether we are working inside a busy zoo or on a tight housing site in North Devon, local expertise is irreplaceable. Devon’s narrow roads, varied terrain, and sensitive environments mean that generic lifting plans simply do not work.
Every job we undertake is fully assessed to ensure we use the right machine for the space. We handle everything from standard crane hire to fully managed lifting services, giving you complete peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions about Our Lifting Services in Devon
With standard crane hire, you are responsible for providing the qualified operator, supervising the lift, and arranging the insurance. With a CPA contract lift, KAS takes care of everything. We provide the lift plan, the supervisor, the operator, and the necessary liability insurance.
Yes, absolutely. Our fleet includes compact all-terrain cranes and versatile Hiab lorry loaders that are perfect for navigating narrow lanes and tight site entrances across Barnstaple and Devon.
Yes. We regularly work in highly sensitive areas, including schools, leisure facilities, and zoos. We produce detailed risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) for every project to guarantee site safety.
If you have an upcoming project in Devon or the wider South West, get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help you keep your lift on track.
