BCHT Chairs report 2025

Chairman’s Report – Annual General Meeting 2026

2025 has been a pivotal year for Beonna as we have continued to move forward with our strategy and approach to becoming a self-funding organisation.

A key milestone has been the development of a comprehensive five-year business plan, created with the support of the Architectural Heritage Fund and Replan. This has provided us with a clear strategic direction and a solid framework for sustainable growth. We are also currently in the process of applying for funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support the delivery of this plan and help bring our long-term vision to life.

Our focus on delivering high-quality service and maintaining strong operational standards is beginning to yield tangible results. We have successfully expanded our income streams through increased private hires and weddings, while continuing to establish Beonna as a vibrant live music venue that supports and showcases local talent. New initiatives, including our open mic nights and car meets, have proven extremely popular and are helping to broaden our audience reach.

We remain committed to hosting community-focused events that drive strong footfall and provide meaningful value to our local population. In addition, our new café partnership has exceeded expectations in both quality and revenue generation. This partnership, alongside significant focus on quality, hygiene, health, and safety standards, reflects the dedication and hard work of trustee Caroline Greaves and café manager Helen Kirk.

Careful management of staffing, utilities, and supplier costs has ensured that our financial position remains as stable as possible at the moment. This is largely due to the effective work of our Operations Lead, Diane Jackson, whose efforts have been instrumental in maintaining cost control without compromising on quality.

I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the commitment of all of our staff and trustees. Their dedication, professionalism, and shared pride in the Beonna are central to the progress we have made. Together, they continue to work tirelessly - even when unexpectedly called upon - to secure the success of this important heritage building.

Looking ahead to 2026/27, we anticipate a challenging environment, particularly with the ongoing impact of global events on the cost of living. However, with a clear strategy, a strong operational model, and a committed team, we are confident in our ability to meet these challenges and continue our journey towards long-term sustainability.

Kevin Pinner

Chairman