Project summary
- To increase income of events at Capesthorne Hall
- In a highly competitive wedding venue market, there had been a downward trend in wedding numbers in the last three years
- With ongoing investment required at the Hall and an increasing wage bill to cover, an increase in income was required
- Three key areas were identified of how to increase bookings for events and increase income
Solution
- It was decided that overnight accommodation should be provided
- The family did not want to turn the hall into a hotel, so it was decided to take back in hand and renovate several cottages around the hall and seek planning permission to construct six luxury accommodation 'pods'
- A private, self-contained walled garden area was agreed as the best location, close to the wedding venue
- Planning was sought, as well as Listed Building consent with planning advice
- As the development was taking place in the greenbelt, a s106 was negotiated with terms agreed with the local authority
- Grant funding was applied for, and approved, for the purchase of the wedding pods
Benefits
- Diversification of the unused walled garden and redundant greenhouses
- Opportunity to renovate dated cottages
- Accommodation will be offered and used for wedding guests will also be available all year round, ensuring an income stream throughout the year
- Increased income generated for essential repairs to the Hall and grounds.
