Multi-Use Building One Step Closer

The "Open Space" meeting held today to discuss the proposed Health & Well Being Multi Use Building, helped to move the project one step closer to realisation.

Although the meeting was not as well attended as had been hoped, more than 20 people, who represented most of the interested parties gathered to discuss what key points needed to be incorporated to make the project a success. 

A comprehensive list was produced, but by the process of the "Open Space" format, key elements emerged.

1. Design 

The initial design is of paramount importance, with the particular needs of all the user groups to be taken into account.  The building must be rugged to withstand the use, but must be built in a sympathetic way to encourage use and be 'fit for purpose'.

2. Management

The building must be economically sustainable and professionally managed to get the best use for cost.

3. Storage & Facilities

Very high on many user groups wish list was for large amounts of secure storage facilities and catering facilities (kitchens).

4. Car Parking

With the possibility that the build would reduce the available parking area, then the creation of additional parking was seen as vital.

I was especially please to hear from the project architect, that Green issues were to be given a very high priority, with possibility of creating a building that was revenue neutral in respect of utility bills, by incorporating such features as Solar and Ground Source heating, PV (photo-volteric) electricity generation, heat exchangers etc.

The business case for the building will now be produced, and inevitably there will be need for some compromises along the way.  Much will depend on how the potential user groups can embrace the concept of a multi-use building and adapt their existing way of working.

For instance the Rugby and Football clubs may wish to have their own changing rooms, but if these are to only be used by them for a few hours a week, they will need to be usable by, for instance, people using the Gym or taking aerobic classes.  The Scouts may wish to have storage for Tents and Camping equipment and room to dry tents, but as this is only for a few days per year, this may have to be done at another location.

It is also probable that groups will have to change their financial structure, as those with their own (or shared) facilities, will have to move from Capital and maintenance expenditure to rental and hire costs, and income generated from sub-letting will be lost.

The new facility is nowhere near a "done-deal" but even though we live in difficult financial times, this project is achievable, but will require a degree of partnership working (and compromise) never before seen in Tenbury.