When Knowsley Enterprise Academy set out their plans for a new build addition to Ormside Education Centre, their residential facility in Cumbria the initial estimated costs were around £350,000.00 As a relatively small charity, we sought to attract as much external support as possible.

We initially made an application to the National Lottery through Sport England, following this they approved £75,000.00 worth of funding for the centre. We then decided to contact both local and national companies who may wish to contribute by way of providing materials, either free of charge or at discounted rate. When we explained that Ormside Education Centre would provide educational residential breaks for children who attend schools in Knowsley and the surrounding areas, their response was very positive.

Initially businesses at North Mersey Business Centre were approached, they then suggested that we approach national companies. One company that was suggested was Redland Roofing, who provided a discount on the Cambrian Slate used on the roof of the new build. We also approached Knauf Insulation who were recommended by Spectrum Dry Lining, Knauf provided us with the fire rated plasterboards and also went on to provide all of the internal & loft area insulation. CCC who are major waste transfer company on the outskirts of Knowsley provided all of the acoustic insulation.

A local demolition company provided a discounted rate to perform the demolition and site clearance. Steve Davies the MD of Structec (NW) Ltd, who is also a trustee of KEA has provided various elements including materials & labour as well as successfully enlisting the support of Beesley & Fildes, who have agreed to provide materials for joinery works. Steve has also secured the support of Pro-Care, who will be supplying the sanitary ware for the bathrooms.

Small businesses such as Bligh Developments, another tenant of North Mersey Business Centre have provided plastic facias and various other items. NEXT Energy, one of the city regions largest energy installation companies have provided KEA with the central heating system & design input. Another NMBC tenant C&L Timberkits run by Lee Verdorn who has a close relationship with Ormside, as his former school used the centre for residential stays has provided all the floor boarding.

Other Knowlsey businesses who have either pledged their support or have provided materials include Smith Flooring, who have provided free materials & labour. Wellings Decorators have offered to source the paint required, as well as providing labour. Cleveland Kitchens have agreed to provide the kitchen units & Frameline, a major window manufacturer are providing a substantial discount on the windows & entrance doors.

To ensure that the maximum cost savings are derived, Phase 8 Development Company Ltd were appointed following a tender process to carry out the construction of the project.

While the new building is under construction, the original building which is a former railway station has remained available for residential visits. Some 180 children have visited the centre during June & July 2022, with Supreme Executive Travel providing subsidised travel to ensure that schools & pupils are offered a cost effective package.

Sponsors

The new building, which has now been in the planning stages for a year or so, is about to go on site.

The two storey building will provide FOUR additional bedrooms and a much improved activity / dining area, together with an add on to the rear of the existing building which will provide a fully accessible room to improve the inclusivity of the Centre, which the traditional railway structure impedes. 

The number of sponsors has been increasing at a steady rate and we have been encouraged that despite the fact there has been a pandemic, the private sector has stepped up to add their support in kind through discounts and material donations. This adds to the existing support provided by Sport England (The National Lottery) and Knowsley Borough Council.

We are STILL looking to identify sponsors for building materials and should you be interested, please contact Steve Dumbell at : 

steve@knowsleytrust.org

In the meantime, we would like to thank all of the companies and organisations who have sponsored the project for their continued support.