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.