Ei Commercial Properties safeguards Ledbury Cricket Club future with major investment

Ei Commercial Properties, the Ei Group business which manages a developing portfolio of assets, has completed a significant deal that has seen the company acquire and build a new ground for Ledbury Cricket Club, helping to safeguard its future.

As part of a wider development project in the town, Ei Commercial Properties has headed the relocation of Ledbury CC, working alongside the club to provide them with a permanent new home once planning consent for housing on the club’s existing site had been secured.

Ei Commercial Properties has also built a new pavilion and assigned the freehold of the land to the club, providing long-term security of tenure. The club is set to play its first game at the new ground this weekend (Saturday 8 July).

A key part of the project has also seen Ei Publican Partnerships invest a transformational £400k in the Full Pitcher pub in Ledbury, Herefordshire, located adjacent to the club’s existing site, for an extensive interior and exterior refurbishment.

Richard Broadribb, Commercial Property Director at Ei Commercial Properties, said, “We are delighted to complete this major deal which safeguards the future of Ledbury Cricket Club by providing a fantastic new ground and facilities.

“We identified a new site for the club, negotiated terms with the landowner and secured planning for the new pavilion. This is a quality development and represents a substantial investment by Ei Commercial Properties, demonstrating our commitment to building strong links with local communities and helping to provide assets that will be valued by future generations.”

Rob Yeoman, Chairman of Ledbury Cricket Club, which was founded in 1837, added, “We previously had no security of tenure so were unable invest in any material fashion in the site. We were seeking a long-term agreement and better facilities elsewhere so are delighted with this outcome.

“We have a fantastic new ground with a purpose built new pavilion for our teams, with improved practice nets and car parking for both players and spectators. A new community football pitch is also in development. These improved facilities will allow us to grow as a club and attract new players.

“Owning the freehold of the land allows us to invest in the future of the club. We are grateful to Ei Commercial Properties for its support throughout the duration of this project. We very much look forward to playing in our new home in the future.”

Ei Commercial Properties worked on the project in conjunction with Silverwood Partnership, a specialist in residential development and planning.

At the Full Pitcher, Ei Publican Partnerships has undertaken a major capex scheme, extending and totally refurbishing the property. The trading area has been expanded with a new bar installed, kitchen revamped to allow for new carvery offer to be introduced, alongside modernising the outdoor space creating a welcoming beer garden and children’s play area.

Publican Lynn Aust said the investment in her pub has had a transformational effect on the business. She said, “Since we reopened we have noticed a real boost in trade and have welcomed many new customers who have commented on how great the pub looks. It’s been very busy and the investment has certainly helped grow the business and helped improve the reputation of the pub among residents in the town.”