Connaught breathes new life into Birmingham youth organisation

Connaught plc has come to the rescue of a rundown Log Cabin to help revive the fortunes of a youth organisation in Birmingham.

Earlswood Log Cabin & Campsite, which is part of the Birmingham Federation of Clubs for Young People (BFCYP), used to be a hive of activity in the 1950s when it was used by local boys’ and young men and in more recent times girls and young women. However, due to a lack of available funding, the outdoor centre is still in much the same state as it was nearly half a century ago, resulting in a dramatic fall in use.

But asset management specialist Connaught has stepped in to carry out a complete modernisation of the facility. It is hoped this will be a catalyst for other works to be completed at the site – including a tent village and adventure facilities.

BFCYP’s director, Mike Smith explained: “Connaught truly has come to the rescue for us. The Log Cabin has been used for many years and has seen a huge number of people come through its doors – including the Campbell brothers from UB40.

“We have been struggling for a number of years as the Log Cabin doesn’t have a heating system, which means that its use during the winter months is limited. Connaught is now completely renovating the centre with works including installing insulation, a new kitchen, a heating system, external works, plastering, painting and decorating. When complete it’s essentially going to provide a brand new facility for people across Birmingham to use.”
Connaught is carrying out the modernisation programme as part of its UK partnership with the Clubs for Young People, which has already seen three clubs across the UK upgraded for local benefit.
The Log Cabin and Campsite in Earlswood is set in the beautiful wooded surroundings with the well known Earlswood lakes nearby. Once work is complete the facility will boast 18-beds, a dining area, well-equipped kitchen as well as a conservation area boasting an abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna. The campsite is spacious and suitable for large groups. It is within easy reach of the motorway networks and is just half a mile away from Earlswood Station, with direct trains into and around Birmingham.
Connaught has challenged 75 managers from across the UK to complete the works as part of the company’s M4E senior management development programme.

Laurence Hughes, contracts manager, is one of the people involved. He said: “It’s certainly challenging us all to learn new practical skills in a bid to put something back into the local community which will provide benefit for years to come. It’s been great fun as well as hard graft and we are looking forward to seeing the difference we make when the project is complete in July.”