Clubhouse Extension Project
Fundraising for a clubhouse for the future
When WOBYC was first formed in 1946, the club was housed in a small, thatch-roofed building which was then upgraded to the current two storey clubhouse in 1966. This has had many improvements over the years, with the addition of balconies, a bar, and more recently, a downstairs extension featuring accessible toilet and changing facilities as well as providing lift access to the bar area. A few years back it was noticed that our existing west balcony was coming to the end of its life, and it is now in need of urgent repair. Planning was then begun on the next building project WOYBC would need to undertake to futureproof our club.
Replacement of the West Balcony
Many different ideas for this were discussed and designed, with plans ranging from simply replacing the current balcony to the installation of a large balcony stretching all the way to the water’s edge, and in the end a design somewhere between the two was decided upon. This new balcony will be larger than our existing one, allowing for the inclusion of a row of outside tables ideal for spectators, and will be accessed from inside the clubhouse through a large sliding door.
Lounge Extension and Improvement
At the same time as we replace the west balcony, we would like to take the opportunity to upgrade the inside of our clubhouse by extending on top of our previous single storey extension to the East. Doing this will enable us to move the bar backwards, increasing the size of the lounge area of the club house and allowing for more seating in our main social space and greatly improving both functionality and atmosphere.
This extension would also include a new entrance, a new safety/race office, improved cloakroom facilities, and dry access from the lift into the bar. The relocation of the race/safety office would also allow us to increase the size of our ladies changing room.
How far along is the project?
So far, we have had architects’ plans drawn, planning permission granted, and quotes for the work given by builders and a Quantity Surveyor. These quotes are both in the area of £150,000 and include both the new West balcony and Eastern clubhouse extension.
Construction on the west balcony began early this year, with an estimated completion date of early this summer.
Fundraising
As a club, WOBYC are able to put forward £100,000 towards the project, leaving a remainder of £50,000 to source from elsewhere. We already have had £30,000 contributed towards our project, leaving £20,000 left to reach our fundraising target.
This is where our members and visitors come in.
We understand that £35,000 is an ambitious fundraising target, but we hope it is one that we are able to meet with a lot of generous help as we really do feel that the improvements these extensions will make to the clubhouse will greatly benefit all users of our space, whether sailor, spectator, member, or visitor.
If you would like to help us reach our fundraising target or just want more details about our project, please speak to our Commodore, Phil, or another member of the Committee. Donations can also be made directly into the bank account as detailed below with the reference ‘Project’:
Sort code: 40-30-28 Account number: 51201204
