Dear Members,
Churchdown Club Committee wishes to issue a statement to clarify rumours and provide a transparent update regarding Monday’s serious fire at Churchdown Club.
What was the cause?
At this stage, we do not know the cause of the fire. The Fire Service investigator has yet to publish their report, and it would be inappropriate to speculate. Once the report is received, we will make its findings available to members.
What are we going to do next?
We have notified our insurers and formally submitted a claim. Our insurers have appointed loss adjusters and a forensic investigator who will be attending the site to assess the damage and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. As soon as we receive further information, we will provide members with another update.
How was the fire contained?
The compartmentalisation of the building, together with well-maintained and regularly inspected fire doors, played a significant role in preventing the fire from spreading into the main Club premises. This incident demonstrates the importance of robust fire safety measures and highlights why the Committee has consistently sought fire safety compliance throughout all parts of the building.
Members will be aware that, for a considerable period, the Committee has been pursuing fire safety compliance issues relating to Spicy Aroma. These concerns have been documented in previous correspondence and communications to members. However, it is important to stress that the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and no conclusions should be drawn until the official reports have been completed. For clarity, the Committee wishes to place on record that there is no suggestion whatsoever that any alleged non-compliance with fire regulations by Spicy Aroma played any part in causing the fire.
What does this mean for the Club?
Members will be aware from documents recently published on the Club website that our insurers placed the Club into special measures due to concerns regarding fire safety compliance and associated risks within the Spicy Aroma tenancy.
Unfortunately, this incident has occurred at the worst possible time for Churchdown Club. Under the terms imposed by our insurers, the Club is liable for 25% of any fire-related claim, subject to a minimum contribution of £50,000. These conditions were applied as a consequence of the insurer’s concerns regarding fire safety compliance and risk management within Spicy Aroma area of the building.
As a result, the financial impact on the Club is likely to be substantial regardless of the outcome of the fire investigation.
Why has a JustGiving page been launched?
The anticipated cost of repairs and reinstatement is expected to be significant. Given the insurance conditions outlined above, the Club will be required to make a substantial contribution towards the claim, funds which are not currently available within the Club’s reserves.
The JustGiving page has therefore been established to allow members, supporters and the wider community the opportunity to assist the Club during what is likely to be one of the most challenging periods in its history. Any contribution, regardless of size, will be greatly appreciated and will help support the Club’s recovery and future.
A message to members
The Committee would like to thank members, staff, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, neighbouring businesses and everyone who has offered support, assistance and kind messages following the incident. While the coming months may present significant challenges, we remain committed to protecting the Club’s future and keeping members fully informed as matters progress.
We would also like to reassure members that the Committee will continue to take all necessary steps to protect the interests of the Club and its members while working closely with our insurers, investigators and professional advisers.
Further updates will be issued as soon as additional information becomes available.
Churchdown Club Committee