Business Planning
Business Planning
The "Life in the Community" project, led by the London Historic Buildings Trust (LHBT) in partnership with the Learning for Life Charity (LfLC), is a transformative initiative aimed at restoring the Grade II listed former Girls' Charity School and adjacent cottage in Edmonton. Located within the Church Street Conservation Area and included on the Heritage at Risk Register, these historic buildings will become a community hub providing training, learning, and work experience for young people, especially those with special educational needs and disabilities. This ambitious project preserves the site's long-standing educational heritage while creating a sustainable space to serve Edmonton's local community.
Alix Slater Consultancy & Training took a lead role in writing the business and evaluation plans for the development phase. Collaborating with LHBT, the consultancy conducted public consultations to inform a comprehensive business plan that resonates with community needs and aspirations. The business plan provides financial projections, pricing structures, and an operational model to ensure sustainability. The evaluation framework is designed to assess community impact and engagement outcomes, ensuring that the project remains aligned with its heritage and social objectives.
Key features of the business plan include a social enterprise café located within the former school building, developed to provide training and employment opportunities. Staffed by students from LfLC's West Lea School, which serves SEND pupils, the café will offer indoor and garden seating to attract the high footfall from nearby Edmonton Green, particularly commuters and young families. Alongside the café, flexible event and meeting spaces in the old school hall and accessible meeting room will accommodate community activities, training events, and support sessions.
After the restoration is completed, LHBT will lease the building to LfLC for 25 years starting in 2027. LfLC will manage the café and community hub, providing essential skills training and opportunities for community engagement. This partnership, enhanced by strategic planning and evaluation from the consultancy, establishes the Charity School as an important social and educational resource, fulfilling heritage conservation standards while addressing the practical needs of the Edmonton community.
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