Feasibility Study - Ellesmere Bowling Club, Clubhouse

1. Executive Summary

This feasibility study evaluates the proposed construction of a new clubhouse for Ellesmere Bowling Club, designed from four 20 ft × 8 ft shipping containers arranged in a 2 × 2 configuration. The project aims to deliver a modern, accessible, and cost-effective facility that enhances the club’s social and sporting environment.

The proposed building footprint is 40 ft × 16 ft, excluding a 4 ft deep veranda facing the bowling green. The clubhouse will include a lounge, bar, kitchen, store, and accessible toilets. The design prioritises sustainability, modular construction, and compliance with local planning and building regulations.

2. Project Objectives

• Provide a welcoming, functional clubhouse for members and visitors.
• Replace or upgrade existing facilities with a modern, insulated structure.
• Use modular container construction to reduce cost and build time.
• Ensure full accessibility and compliance with UK Building Regulations.
• Create a visually appealing structure that complements the bowling green.

3. Site Context

• Location: Ellesmere Bowling Club, Ellesmere, Shropshire.
• Setting: Adjacent to the crown green, with access from the car park.
• Orientation: Front elevation faces the green; rear elevation faces car park area.
• Ground conditions: Level grassed area suitable for container foundations.
• Utilities: Existing water, electricity, and drainage connections nearby.

4. Design Overview

4.1 Building Layout

• Front row: Lounge and bar (Containers A & B)
• Rear row: Kitchen, store, and toilets (Containers C & D)
• Overall footprint: 40 ft × 20 ft (16 ft internal + 4 ft veranda)

4.2 Key Features

• Flat roof with slight fall (1:60) to rear gutter.
• Full-width veranda with timber decking and four support posts.
• Glazed front elevation with double doors and large windows.
• Accessible WC and unisex WC.
• Insulated walls, roof, and floor for year-round use.

5. Technical Feasibility

5.1 Structural

• Containers provide robust steel framework.
• Reinforced openings for doors and windows.
• Roof frame spans all containers for unified appearance.
• Foundations: concrete pads or strip footings.

5.2 Services

• Electrical: consumer unit, LED lighting, sockets, external lights.
• Plumbing: electric water heater, cold feed, waste connection.
• Heating: electric panel heaters or compact heat pump.

5.3 Accessibility

• Level threshold at main entrance.
• Accessible WC with 1500 mm turning circle.
• Door widths compliant with Part M.

6. Financial Feasibility

6.1 Estimated Costs (Indicative)

6.2 Funding Options

• Crowd funding appeal.
• Club reserves and fundraising.
• Local authority grants for community facilities.
• Sport England small grants programme.
• Sponsorship and member contributions.

7. Planning & Regulatory Considerations

• Planning permission: Required for permanent structure.
• Building regulations: Compliance with Part A (Structure), Part L (Energy Efficiency), Part M (Accessibility), and Part P (Electrical Safety).
• Fire safety: Smoke/heat detectors, emergency lighting, fire exits.
• Environmental: Sustainable materials and efficient insulation.

8. Risk Assessment

9. Project Timeline (Indicative)

10. Conclusion

The proposed clubhouse is technically and financially feasible within the club’s scale and resources. Modular container construction offers a cost-effective, sustainable solution with rapid build time and minimal site disruption. The design meets accessibility and planning requirements while providing a modern, attractive facility for members and visitors.

Next steps:

1. Confirm funding sources.
2. Commission detailed architectural drawings.
3. Submit planning application.
4. Obtain contractor quotations.
5. Schedule construction for optimal weather window.

Prepared for: Ellesmere Bowling Club
Prepared by:  
Date: May 2026