CALA Homes Case Studies - Olton and West Warwickshire Sports Club

Olton and West Warwickshire Sports Club have been in existence for over 100 years, but due to recent opening of health and fitness clubs such as David Lloyd, Fitness First and Virgin Active, OWWSC were unable to compete and numbers dwindled. Facilities were not in great condition either. The club had produced a European Championship women's hockey team. However, they were unable to play at the club because the pitch was in such poor condition.

In 2002 an opportunity was identified which enabled the sports club to remain in existence, provide funds to modernise and secure the long term future of the club.This was a "win win" situation for the club and also for CALA Homes, the selected developer.

CALA Homes got to work in hand-picking the professional team which would ensure the best outcome for all parties involved with this development. CALA quickly identified specialist groups, such as Sport England, who needed to be involved.

After two years of hard work, a resolution to grant planning permission was secured on 26th January 2005. CALA Homes were praised at the planning sub-committee for their commitment, their approach and the public consultation that had taken place in order for such a development to take place.

Through working in partnership and commitment, the club's future at Grange Road is secure and both the development of a high quality residential scheme and club improvements will contribute to an overall improvement in the local area.

CALA approached the club initially to purchase the second team cricket pitch to secure the club's financial future in the long term.

A professional team was put together and CALA were confident that with the correct approach a planning consent could be realised.

This Case Study illustrates:

• CALA's ability and willingness to work with the Local Authority, Sports England and various local action groups to obtain a planning consent within 13 weeks from submission of the detailed planning application.
• CALA's ability to maximise the land value by minimising the impact of the "affordable" housing on-site.
• CALA's ability to utilise high quality design to reflect the adjacent conservation area.