Arthog Outdoor Education Centre, Snowdonia: Development and operational review
Client: Telford & Wrekin Council
PSC carried out a comprehensive review of the Arthog Outdoor Education Centre in Wales to assess its current operation, market positioning and potential for future growth.
Arthog is an outdoor education residential activity centre owned and operated by Telford and Wrekin Council. It recently celebrated its 60th birthday. The centre is well regarded and has a strong market among schools within Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. It can accommodate an optimum of 90 children at any one time.
The centre has established an excellent reputation as a leading provider of adventure activities, capitalising on the diversity and quality of activity venues in this extraordinary corner of North Wales, set within its own private grounds and offering stunning views overlooking Barmouth Bay and the Mawddach estuary.
Given the Council’s drive and commitment to maintaining the facility well into the future, and against the backdrop of the asset’s condition and the current budget position, we reviewed the current base position and set out a proposed forward plan to prioritise future investment and income-generating opportunities.
We completed a detailed site review, extensive consultation, primary survey research, and options analysis, with firm recommendations for the short-, medium-, and long-term development plans. The recommended plans covered the built facilities and equipment, operations, marketing, programmed activities, and supporting infrastructure.
As part of the comprehensive review, we evaluated the building layout, property condition (and the need for infrastructure investment) and current charging policy. We also assessed the staffing structure, as well as operational and budget information. Our work included market analysis, competitor benchmarking, and an assessment of the current offer, pricing, and future opportunities.
We also identified and reviewed opportunities to introduce new offers, explore new markets, and develop secondary spend areas. Our work culminated in a detailed action plan broken down into core themed operational areas. To find out more about Arthog please visit their website.
How can we help?
If you have any questions about carrying out a review for an outdoor education activity centre don’t hesitate to call Richard Linington on 07866 742628 or email richard@pslplan.co.uk