Community Update: Future of the former sports & social club building

6th June 2025

Patchway Town Council wants to thank residents for their continued interest in the future of the empty sports and social club building at Norman Scott Park.

The sudden closure of the Patchway Sports & Social Club in October 2024 came as a shock to many, including Patchway Town Council. We want to be clear – the Council did not force the closure.  The decision to close and forfeit the lease was made by the Patchway Sports & Social Club membership through a formal vote following severe financial difficulties and the fact the club held no valid insurances. Without insurances, the club could not operate legally.

The decision to forfeit the lease resulted in the building being handed over to the Council in October 2024.This decision made internally by the Patchway Sports & Social Club membership brought the previous chapter of the building’s use to a close in October 2024.

The Council stepped in immediately, seeking legal advice to ensure that actions and decisions were handled properly, legally and transparently.

Since then, the Council has taken on significant responsibilities and financial costs to secure, assess and plan for the future of the building, and to start planning for a more positive future. All without receiving any rental income from the building.

To date, the Council has:

• Cleared, secured and is regularly monitoring the building.

• Taken over utility bills, insurance and business rates to South Gloucestershire Council to ensure full public oversight. All financial liabilities can be seen in the Council’s monthly financial statements presented at Full Council meetings.

• Engaged with suppliers to manage legacy arrangements appropriately.

• Commissioned a full survey of the building, which found that repair and renovation costs could be significant — potentially impacting the Council’s financial sustainability and leading to higher council tax for Patchway residents.

• Launched an open tender process (closing Friday 6th June 2025) for a full repairing lease, inviting innovative proposals that could bring renewed community benefit. All ideas are welcome.

• Responded to resident queries about the club’s closure, acknowledging that many members had not been kept informed by Club Committees.

• Convened a Steering Group of residents to begin shaping ideas for what comes next - with a clear focus on the future, not the past.

The Council understands how important this space is to many in our community.  When reading comments made on social media it is clear that the building holds many memories of events and special occasions that have been enjoyed at the club.

The Council is open to the building being used to its fullest and is committed to getting it right.  The Council wants the community asset to serve the residents and visitors of all ages and needs – that may include community events, support services, wellbeing activities, or new cultural, social or entertainment spaces.  The Council does recognise there is a need to ensure this community space in Patchway supports residents.

In the meantime, please continue to support the Patchway Labour Club at The Parade (BS34 5LJ), which remains a fantastic venue for entertainment, connection, community spirit and a place to have a drink.

Our two Community Centres also need ongoing promotion and support (Coniston Community Centre, The Parade, BS34 5LP and Patchway Community Centre, Rodway Road, BS34 5PF).

They are all key assets for our town and part of the strong foundation we are building on.