A Question Of Faith Not Fitness
The loss of venues three bars in 2020, was the final straw for many members. It was rather forced upon them, with no prior consulation by the new owners, the Chelmsford Muslim Society
It has turned out to be a catastrophic decision, since it was the primary, and the only viable revenue stream for the venue.
“more health and fitness, and family orientated”
The decision to close the bars was announced way back in January 2020, by Ayman Syed from the Chelmsford Muslim Society, who offered two slightly different explanations :
"The aim of the centre will be as a health and fitness centre and we will be removing the license as part of this process. We will, however, be honouring bookings that have been made by residents. Source: Essex Live 28.01.20
“We also plan to change the operation of the bars at the centre, to become more health and fitness and family focused”. Source: Open Letter To Great Baddow Residents 31.01.20
However, an email from 2020 (dated 28/02/20) has recently come to light, in which Ayman Syed presents an all together different view on the closure of the bars. In an email to a local resident he states:
“For muslims alcohol is something we find difficult to compromise on and no matter how I've tried to look at the situation from a religious aspect we cannot do it. We recognise the detriment it might have on revenue but we are also determined in our resolve to make the centre a success. We have debts to pay and want the centre to succeed”.
So it’s not really about health and fitness then ?
Debts To Pay
Of course the venue makes some income from room rental and tennis/squash bookings, but it’s frankly not enough to break even, let alone make a profit or pay off some of the venues debts.
The loss of three social/leisure dance groups, who not only held weekly classes, but in the past also held monthly socials, will add to the growing financial pressures at the club.
And let’s not forget the Marconi Veterans Association, who were forced to find an alternative venue for their annual reunion, after the bars closed, and the on-site caterers had their lease terminated.
The addition of the tin Tea Hut with it’s outdoor seating, will do little to help, and costs more to staff, than it earns.
Another long Winter is coming
Winter will of course bring extra running costs for heating and lighting, and a decrease in tennis bookings on the outdoor courts. It certainly won’t do much to improve the takings at the Tin Hut.
With no revenue from Christmas parties, socials or weddings to tide them over, we predict another bleak winter at Hamptons.
And let’s not forget that donations and income from the mosque and madrassa, go straight back into one of the owners multiple accounts. None of that money finds it way back into the Hamptons business account.
So much for investing in health and fitness
KBO