New Stratford clubhouse conference and wedding centre now has global reach

Lodders Solicitors has helped one of the country’s top holiday park businesses clinch a major deal with the NEC Group’s catering arm, Amadeus.

Avon Estates Ltd, advised by Lodders partner Alastair Frew, is to operate the new £3.2 million Riverside Clubhouse, in partnership with Amadeus.

The clubhouse was designed by architects Emission Zero, manufactured in Russia and constructed on site by Evesham contractors Desert Oak who are finishing the interior, fitting all internal packages including the windows, ceiling and heating.

Avon Estates managing director Nic Allen said: “The building is extremely eco friendly, built on the flood plain on stilts and is, we believe, the largest wooden structure in the UK.

“The 13,000 sq ft building was built in Russia of eco-friendly timber construction and is based on a Swiss chalet style, incorporating nautical themes in keeping with its riverside setting.”

He added that while they were extremely proud of the clubhouse they had built to serve their complex of three holiday parks either side of the River Avon, they recognised that to capitalise on this extremely valuable asset, they should seek outside expertise.

“Who better than the NEC Group whose Amadeus has experience of serving some of the biggest exhibition and conference customers in the world?” he said.

The new, purpose-built clubhouse is on the Tiddington Road site, adjacent to the footbridge built by Avon Estates across the river to link the firm’s three holiday parks, which was opened in May 2001 by Olympic rowing gold medallist Matthew Pinsent.

Nic Allen said: “We are planning to open Riverside Clubhouse in March this year as the holiday parks reopen for what we anticipate is going to be a really busy season.”

Lodders partner Alastair Frew said: “This is a stunning building providing a world class venue for the holiday park and Warwickshire events.

“Being in Stratford-upon-Avon which is known across the globe, it will also have international reach for foreign companies investing in the Midlands and seeking a prestigious venue for events such as product launches.”

Amadeus has created 15 new jobs to support the new contract.

Kevin Watson, managing director of Amadeus said the firm would call on its experience in both the meet and visit hospitality areas to cater to individual needs and offer the very best in food, service and management.

“The venue is well equipped for conference and team building exercises, with private balconies and break-out space, while the beautiful setting makes it a fairytale location for weddings.

“Riverside is a unique venue in a magnificent location. We are really looking forward to welcoming local residents and businesses alike. Amadeus has over 34 years’ experience of providing venue management and catering, so you can rest assured that fabulous quality food and service is guaranteed whatever the occasion.”