Himley Hall Sailing Club Security Project, Himley Hall Sailing Club, Dudley

This is a project to provide permanent fencing at Himley Hall Sailing Club together with planting to soften the impact of the fencing on this heritage site.

Since 1969 the successful club has introduced young people and adults to the joy and benefits of local sailing. In 2022/23, the club suffered serious vandalism and damage. Because the club sits in an 18th century country park, finding a solution that would allow continued sailing for groups and individuals safely with good security has proved difficult. It has taken more than a year to obtain planning approval for building, fencing and essential landscaping, but this cost is such that the club must share it between two funders. ECT is being approached to contribute, along with Sport England.

The temporary fencing has, apart from some initial problems, proved a huge improvement over the ranch style fencing that had been repeatedly repaired since 1979. To comply with planning requirements, a steel zinc and powder-coated black fence must be erected within the allotted period. Such change will allow the club to sustain and develop a quality experience of sailing for young people and adults, including those with disabilities. There are recognised health benefits of both physical exercise and development of responsibility, confidence and teamwork that are part of the experience.

Nationally and locally, there is continued tragedy of children drowning in lakes, canals, and rivers. Even proven swimmers need confidence to swim in non-pool settings. The lake does not exceed 5ft depth and is a good place to gain such confidence. Despite the club’s size and inland location, it has in the past been runner up Training Club of the Year against larger clubs. As an RYA affiliated club, it provides formal training to RYA Level one and two, powerboat training, and training to a level that equates to Badge level for Scouts. These courses are complemented by 'Fun on Water' experience and 'taster sessions'.

Without effective security the club cannot operate and is conscious that the provision of the fencing is expensive although hopefully long lasting. Apart from the fencing, other recent requirements were the replacement of the Starters Hut, which was burnt down in 2023, the most recent act of vandalism suffered. The club has used money received from insurance, club funds and money raised, to replace this with a fireproof converted container. The specified planting is to screen the boat park from the 'Hall', to preserve its 18th century appearance for the benefit of its lucrative wedding market.