Heritage venues add a touch of prestige and history to an event but the assumption is often made that they will not feature up-to-date technology. According to Richard Young , General Manager of Great Fosters in Egham, Surrey, this does not have to be the case. In fact, Richard suggests that historic venues can combine state-of-the-art meeting facilities for clients without being unsympathetic to the integrity of the building.
 
Richard said: “Historic venues are inextricably linked to the country’s history, which adds a degree of gravitas to the proceedings. Decisions made in these venues often have an impact far beyond the immediate event and resonate for years and even generations to come, hence their popularity.
 
“Yet although they offer a prestigious and unique meeting venue, event organisers find themselves discounting them for modern venues on the assumption that this is where they will be able to benefit from state-of-the-art technology.  For many venues, ourselves included, this is not the case. In fact, even with the problems often associated with integrating modern facilities into historic architecture, it is still possible, the facilities on offer can in some instances be better than those at modern venues.”
 
Work has begun on The Coach House at Great Fosters , a Grade II building that was once the former coach house and stables of the property. Samsung recently signed a deal with the hotel that will see its latest technology being introduced into The Coach House, making it one of the most technically advanced venues in the UK.
 
“Today’s event organisers are more discerning than ever before and expect the highest standards wherever they go.  I believe that it is possible to strike the delicate balance between character and the need for up-to-date facilities. In today’s economic climate there has never been more need for historic venues to step out of the past and into the future, to ensure they remain competitive in a venues market that continues to grow,” Richard concluded.