From the CDCCA Management Committee
We hope that you have read Haven Café Bar Refurbishments FAQ as this answers questions and comments raised as a result of the appeal for funds to refurbish The Haven Bar.
The Haven Centre is a valuable community asset and the Trustees realised that if it was to remain viable, we needed help. The first step was research, which included ‘Do people still want a community centre, what would they like to see there?’. Much data was gathered but what was an indisputable fact was how much the centre meant to many in the community. Below are a few comments:
“We would lose the central hub of our village! This will destroy our village and ruin a community that I love!”
“If the Haven Centre were to close, I would spend all day everyday alone as my family live too far away for casual visits.”
“Such a loss to local support particularly the support I found as a new parent.”
“If the centre closed it would have an enormous impact on the community as so many differing ages rely on it for socialisation, wellbeing and activities.”
The data formed the basis of a presentation meeting and resulted in the Focus Group being established. Andrew Metcalfe and Dan Terry have taken the lead roles and have worked tirelessly and in a very short space of time are now ready with their team to start work on phase 1.
It is not only about what you can see being done but we are also looking at the structure of management, systems of operation and administration. Some changes have already taken place.
We have already seen an amazing response to the café bar refurbishment with people being really generous with financial donations, materials and their time. We cannot thank you enough for that.
This is going to be a long-term project and your continued support in whatever format that may be, will be very much appreciated. The Haven Centre is there for the community.
The Trustees are fully committed to this refurbishment and both Andrew and Dan have our full backing.
Frances Lancaster
Chairman
CDCCA Management Committee
Haven Café Bar Refurbishments FAQ
1. Who runs the Haven Centre
The Crawley Down Community Centre Association (CDCCA) is a charitable incorporated organisation (Charity Number: 1173791) dedicated to enhancing the lives of Crawley Down residents and the surrounding community. Operating from The Haven Centre on Hophurst Lane, the CDCCA provides facilities that support social welfare, education, business, and leisure activities.
Purpose of the Charity: The CDCCA aims to promote the benefit of the inhabitants of Crawley Down and its neighbourhood by advancing education and providing facilities in the interests of social welfare. This is achieved by associating with local authorities, voluntary organisations, and residents in a common effort to create a hub for community activities.
Key Information:
- Charity Number: 1173791
- Address: The Haven Centre, Hophurst Lane, Crawley Down, Crawley, RH10 4LJ
- Phone: 01342 716791
- Email: mail@cdhavencentre.co.uk
- Website: www.cdhavencentre.co.uk
Trustees: The CDCCA is governed by a board of volunteer Trustees responsible for overseeing its operations and ensuring it meets its charitable objectives. As of the latest update, the trustees are:
- Frances Lancaster (Chair)
- Jonathan James Smith
- Susan Smith
- Linda Frances Dixon
- Michael David Martin
- Sharon Lynn Earl
- Mark Langdon
- John Robert Dixon
For the most current list of trustees, please refer to the Charity Commission’s official page.
Facilities and Services: The Haven serves as a multifunctional venue offering a range of spaces for hire, including rooms, a hall/theatre, and a café bar. It hosts various clubs and associations, such as the Crawley Down Football Club, catering to diverse interests within the community.
By providing these facilities and services, the CDCCA plays a vital role in fostering community spirit and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Crawley Down and the surrounding areas.
2. How is the bar operated and why is there a Ltd. company?
In the UK, charities are regulated by the Charity Commission and are required to operate in line with their stated charitable purposes, as defined in their governing document. However, they can raise money in ways that are not directly related to their primary charitable purposes, provided certain conditions are met.
Here’s how this works:
1. Trading Activities
Charities are allowed to engage in trading activities, which can be categorised as either primary purpose trading or non-primary purpose trading:
- Primary Purpose Trading: This is trading directly linked to the charity’s main objectives. For example, in the case of The Haven this would include charging fees for events or rooms rental, as this aligns with its charitable purpose.
- Non-Primary Purpose Trading: This involves activities that are not directly related to the charity’s purpose but generate income for it. For example, selling beer to the general public as this is not the primary purpose of the charity.
2. Using a Trading Subsidiary
For non-primary purpose trading, charities often set up a trading subsidiary. A trading subsidiary is a separate company wholly owned by the charity.
- The subsidiary carries out the non-primary purpose trading activities, such as selling food/drink or commercial events designed to raise money.
- Profits from the subsidiary are then donated to the parent charity under Gift Aid, which also reduces the tax liability for the subsidiary.
This structure helps the charity comply with regulations and manage risks, as the trading subsidiary is a distinct legal entity.
In summary, while UK charities must primarily focus on their charitable purposes, they are permitted to engage in activities not directly aligned with those purposes, provided they adhere to legal guidelines, manage risks appropriately, and use the proceeds to advance their charitable objectives.
The Haven is committed to ensuring the community can utilise its facilities at a sensible price, but The Haven is unfortunately not financially sustainable if it has to rely on the income from room hires alone. The Trading Company should enable the charity to embark on Non-Primary Purpose Trading to raise the funds needed to maintain and enhance the centre.
3. Why does the Haven Bar not have the money to refurbish the bar?
The Haven Bar faces several financial challenges that have hindered its ability to refurbish the space:
- Loss of Reserves During COVID-19
Like many businesses, the bar experienced significant financial strain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Extended closures and reduced activity depleted reserves that could have been used for refurbishment. - Rising Costs
In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in energy prices and stock costs. These rising expenses have placed additional pressure on the bar’s operating budget, leaving little room for reinvestment. - Inability to Invest
Due to tight finances, the bar has been unable to make improvements to the space. This lack of investment has made it difficult to enhance the environment and attract more customers. - Poor Atmosphere
The dated appearance and lack of upgrades have contributed to a less appealing atmosphere, which impacts the overall customer experience. This discourages repeat business and limits income generation. - Downward Spiral
The combination of high costs, a lack of investment, and a poor atmosphere has created a challenging cycle. Declining revenues make it harder to invest in improvements, which in turn perpetuates the bar’s struggles.
Without intervention or significant funding, the Haven Bar remains in a difficult financial position, unable to break this cycle and invest in much-needed refurbishments.
4. How does refurbishing the bar impact the overall Haven Centre?
Refurbishing the bar will have a transformative impact on the Haven Centre, not only addressing the financial and operational challenges but also enhancing the centre’s role as a vibrant hub for the community. The refurbishment is only part of the solution; it will be complemented by a comprehensive plan to reinvigorate the bar’s operations and offerings.
The refurbishment will directly address the factors contributing to the bar’s current struggles. A modern, appealing space will draw more patrons, reversing the downward spiral caused by a poor atmosphere. Increased footfall will help rebuild financial reserves and provide a stable foundation for further investment. Investing in the bar will create a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits, fostering a positive cycle of growth and sustainability.
The refurbishment will be paired with a refreshed approach to the bar’s operations and offerings:
- New Food and Drink Menu:
A modernised menu will cater to varied tastes, providing an exciting reason for patrons to visit The Haven regularly. - Aligned Opening Hours:
The new Lounge & Bar will be open whenever the rest of The Haven is open, encouraging integrated use of all facilities on offer, boosting overall engagement. - Improved AV Systems:
Upgraded audiovisual equipment will enhance the experience for events, live sports, and entertainment. This will enable multiple fixtures and sports/events to be shown at the same time making the bar a go-to venue for social gatherings. - Variety of activities:
The bar will host a range of activities, including:- Sussex Toads: A traditional Sussex pub game that involves flicking brass coins into a hole on a slate surface. This unique offering adds a local cultural touch and attracts enthusiasts. There is considerable following for this and it is hoped that Crawley Down will soon have its own team.
- Darts Club: Reviving this popular pastime will draw both casual players and competitive leagues.
- Enhanced Children’s Area
The revitalisation of the bar will contribute to the success of the entire Haven Centre:
- Enhanced Reputation: A modernised bar will elevate the centre’s reputation as a well-maintained and appealing venue.
- Increased Footfall: Improved offerings will attract more visitors to the bar, who may also engage with other facilities at the centre.
- Community Engagement: A welcoming, multifunctional space will strengthen the Haven Centre’s role as a central meeting place for the community.
- Increased Revenue: Importantly, an increase in Non-Primary Purpose Trading will generate the money needed to reinvest and continually upgrade and improve The Haven, from the changing rooms to equipment, and potentially allow room hire to local residents at even lower prices.
In summary, refurbishing the bar will not only reverse the current financial and operational challenges but also catalyse a broader transformation of The Haven, ensuring its sustainability and relevance as a community hub.
5. What refurbishment is being done?
The refurbishment will focus on modernising and enhancing the space to create a welcoming, functional, and appealing environment. Key elements of the refurbishment include:
- Removal of the existing ceiling tiles, exposing the concrete ceiling and ventilation system. All of which will be painted black for a modern and trendy industrial vibe.
- Removal of the “post box” effect around the bar. The wooden drop above the bar will be removed and the existing wooden top back bar will be removed. This will be replaced with a metal back bar, and display screens for the drinks menu and offers.
- Installation of a well-designed and energy efficient lighting scheme to create ambience and flexibility.
- Installation of modern, energy-efficient equipment to help reduce operating costs and environmental impact.
- Newhigh-quality audiovisual equipment will be installed to enable for live sports, music, and other entertainment to occur. This will enable multiple channels to be displayed concurrently and what’s happening at The Haven to be communicated with those relaxing in the Lounge & Bar.
- New facilities for activitiessuch as darts and the Sussex Toads will be introduced to encourage team and community engagement and participation.
- The space will be set out to create an adaptable space to accommodate various events, from casual gatherings to larger celebrations.
This refurbishment is designed not only to transform the physical space but also to set the stage for the bar’s revitalised operations and offerings, ensuring it becomes a central hub for the community.
6. What other changes will be made to the Haven Bar?
Beyond the physical refurbishment, a range of operational and programme changes will be implemented to revitalise the Haven Bar, ensuring it becomes a dynamic, community-focused venue. These changes include:
1. Enhanced Staff Training and Operations
- New Staff Handbook: Introducing a comprehensive guide to ensure consistency in customer service, operational efficiency, and adherence to best practices.
- Staff Training Programmes: Providing training in areas such as hospitality, customer engagement, and bar management to improve the overall experience for patrons.
2. Improved Food and Drink Offerings
- Refreshed Menu: A modernised and varied selection of food and drink options, catering to a wider range of tastes and dietary needs.
- Specialty Offerings: We are likely to introduce themed nights and visiting chefs to keep offerings fresh and exciting.
3. Expanded Event Programme
- Regular Events: Hosting engaging activities such as bingo, quiz nights, and themed evenings to attract diverse audiences.
- Published Events Schedule: Developing and sharing a well-organised events calendar to keep the community informed and encourage participation.
4. More and Varied Televised Sports
- Expanded Coverage: Offering a broader range of televised sports, from mainstream events like football and rugby to niche sports, ensuring appeal to a wide audience.
- Varied Viewing Spaces: Creating comfortable areas for patrons to enjoy sports events through the enhanced AV systems. This will also allow those not wanting to watch sports in a relaxing environment to do so.
5. Greater Community Focus
- Cultural and Social Activities: Introducing more events like live music, local performances, and social meet-ups to cater to different interests. This includes existing groups who use the space like Knit & Natter.
- Integration with The Haven Centre: Aligning bar activities with other centre functions to create a cohesive community experience.
These changes are designed to complement the physical refurbishment of the Haven Bar, ensuring it becomes not only a welcoming and modernised space but also a thriving hub for social, cultural, and recreational activities in the community.
7. Is there plan to refurbish the other areas of the Haven Centre in future?
Yes, there are plans to refurbish other areas of the Haven Centre as and when funding becomes available.
The charity is working closely with Crawley Down Gatwick Football Club and it is hoped that we will be able to secure Section 106 funding, which will be used to revitalise and upgrade the club’s changing rooms. This project will significantly improve facilities for the football club.
A significant digitisation project is underway, with the charity actively applying for grants from the Gatwick Airport Community Trust and Mid Sussex District Council to fund it. It comprises
- IT Infrastructure Revamp: The existing IT systems will be completely overhauled to provide a modern, reliable platform for future operations.
- New Booking System: A user-friendly booking system will be implemented, making it easier for the community to access the centre’s resources and for the charity to communicate upcoming activities and events.
This project will streamline operations and ensure the centre remains accessible and well-organised.
Once additional funding is secured, the charity aims to undertake further refurbishments across The Haven, improving facilities to ensure they remain fit for purpose and continue to meet the needs of the community.
By pursuing these initiatives, the charity demonstrates a commitment to the long-term improvement of the Haven Centre, ensuring it remains a vital resource for Crawley Down and its residents.