From the beginning, the ambition was to create a building that could support community use alongside the needs of the rugby club. That shift was important, as it affected how the building would be used and how it could be funded. Introducing community-focused elements opened up opportunities that wouldn’t have been available to a purely sports-led scheme.
At the same time, the project needed to remain practical. It still had to function as a working clubhouse, supporting matchdays and day-to-day use without compromise.
The number of stakeholders also added complexity. Input from the rugby club, governing bodies and wider community groups meant decisions needed to be carefully managed and clearly communicated.
The design brings together sports and community uses within a single building. Alongside core rugby facilities, the proposal introduces spaces that can support a wider range of uses. This includes informal meeting areas, café-style spaces, and rooms that can be used by local groups or as safe, accessible environments for vulnerable users.
Flexibility was key. Spaces were designed to adapt depending on how the building is being used, allowing it to operate differently throughout the day and across the week.
The project was developed through a series of workshops and ongoing discussions with stakeholders. This made sure the design responded to a range of needs rather than a single brief. Our approach also helped align the project with potential funding routes, keeping the design grounded in what could realistically be delivered.
The result is a proposal that positions the building as a community asset, supporting both sport and wider social use – while opening up more viable funding opportunities.
The design reflects a balance between ambition and practicality. It creates a facility that works for the club, while also contributing to the wider community.