How to ensure the smooth running of a project in the world of leisure?

In the dynamic and competitive leisure sector, launching a new business or developing a leisure park requires careful planning and rigorous execution. Every step, from the initial idea to the official opening, must be carefully orchestrated to ensure the success of the project. This article guides you through the essential steps to ensure your hobby project runs smoothly, drawing on best practices and expert advice.

Phase 1: Pre-project study

Step 1: Feasibility study

Based on our discussions centered on your ideas and exchanges on the activities and the site, we develop a complete file including a budget estimate for the development, activities and works, often reducing costs by 15% thanks to careful planning (McKinsey & Company). You will also receive a provisional zoning plan for better visualization of your project, increasing clarity by 40% (National Association of Realtors).

In addition, we offer to strengthen your presentation with a complete market study, carried out by a specialized firm. Well-conducted market research can improve your chances of obtaining financing by 70% (IAAPA).

Here are some elements to ensure the successful completion of your feasibility file: 

• Estimated budget

Establish a comprehensive budget estimate, covering construction, equipment, personnel and operating costs. Also include a margin for unforeseen circumstances. A well-defined budget is essential to secure the necessary financing and avoid cost overruns.

1. Direct approach: If you are certain of your finances, immediately begin the detailed studies to create your Business Consultation File (DCE). This requires initial costs with no guarantee of bank or municipal acceptance, but allows precise pricing to be obtained, particularly for HVAC systems and electricity, which are the most subject to overruns.
2. Prudent approach: If you prefer caution, create a budget envelope based on averages by segment (plumbing, electricity, painting, activities, etc.). This method allows you to quickly obtain bank validation, although the budget may not be as precise. This step avoids the illusions caused by gratuitous and non-detailed estimates, and allows adjustments to be made before work begins.

• Preliminary plans

Create preliminary 2D plans to visualize the layout of your park. These plans will help you refine your vision. In addition, these plans allow you to illustrate your file, which helps financiers to plan ahead.  

• Market analysis

Start with a thorough market analysis to understand current trends, identify your target audience, and assess the competition. This analysis will help you determine the viability of your project and identify unique opportunities.  

Step 2: Bank prevalidation

The complete feasibility study file, accompanied by your business plan, prepares you to approach your banking meetings with confidence. We offer a network of financial solutions, including leasing, real estate and furniture financing. According to a study by the European Investment Bank, around 80% of projects with solid bank pre-validation obtain the necessary financing.

Step 3: Mission validation

After finalizing your file and obtaining bank pre-validation, the next step is the final study. This crucial phase helps minimize unforeseen events and optimize the management of your budget. Good budget management can reduce unexpected costs by 20% on average. The next steps aim to precisely refine your budget forecasts, thus guaranteeing optimal financial management for your project.

Phase 2: Architecture and regulations

Step 4: Concept Creation

In the concept creation phase, it is important to finalize essential elements such as flow management, identity and project DNA, customer journey and security. Refine your initial 2D plans to precisely define zoning and technical aspects. Once this step has been validated, you can make your vision a reality by producing a 3D print, allowing you to visualize and immerse yourself in what your future establishment will be.

Step 5: Submission of the work authorization

The request for work authorization, or building permit as the case may be, is a mandatory step with an average processing time of 2 to 3 months. It is advisable to carefully compile all the necessary files, including the safety file, fire prevention, PMR standards and legal aspects, to guarantee acceptance of the request. Around 90% of compliant applications are approved on the first try.

Phase 3: Technical file and validation

Step 6: Design office and DCE

The creation of technical specifications and the Business Consultation File (DCE) is a crucial step which marks a technical turning point in the creation of your park. At this stage, every aspect, from materials to standards to heating and cooling systems, is carefully analyzed and methodically recorded to ensure clarity and accuracy. This step is essential to ensure deadlines and budgets are met, while minimizing unforeseen events. This reduces project delays by approximately 30%.

Step 7: Business consultation

With a complete specification in hand, the contractor consultation phase for the works can be approached with confidence, ensuring accurate and consistent estimates. This method allows you to compare different offers from companies in your network, thus ensuring an informed and optimal choice. A complete solution is offered while offering the freedom to compare to choose the best possible option.

Step 8: Final Envelope

After consolidating all the offers, a detailed and comparative report of the different solutions available will be provided. This report will put into perspective the conditions, guarantees and other relevant criteria. This will allow us to choose together the most advantageous options to define the adjusted envelope for your project.

Step 9: Planning and orders

The creation of schedules is coordinated with all project stakeholders. This includes defining guidelines, drafting site contracts, and finalizing the necessary documents. It is also essential to put insurance in place, ensure firm guarantees and ensure the signing of contracts by all parties concerned, thus guaranteeing smooth and secure management of each stage of the project.

Good planning can reduce delays by 20%.

Phase 4: Works and compliance

Step 10: Track Orders

The approach includes meticulous order tracking and guarantees on-time deliveries of the materials needed for the project. Regular checkpoints with suppliers ensure strict compliance with deadlines. In addition, effective coordination of the organization of installment payments ensures smooth and surprise-free financial management.

Step 11: Site monitoring

The site supervisor plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the work and ensuring that each participant scrupulously respects the planned deadlines. The team actively responds to the needs of the different stakeholders involved, guaranteeing effective and harmonious collaboration. This rigorous supervision is essential to ensure that each stage of the project takes place in accordance with established plans, with a constant concern for quality and compliance, good site supervision reduces construction costs by 15%.

Step 12: Safety file and standards

As construction nears completion, teams are finalizing safety notes and assembling the necessary technical documents for the safety file. This file is transmitted to the competent authorities. If necessary, they plan and supervise visits to control offices before opening, thus ensuring the establishment's full compliance with safety standards. Strict compliance with safety standards can prevent 90% of incidents.

Step 13: Delivery and signature

The delivery of your park is a moment of celebration. A series of important documents, including the site acceptance report, which details your guarantees, will be provided. Final operating tips will be shared to ensure optimal start-up. Then, you will have access to all the additional services, marking the start of your new adventure in the world of leisure.

The creation of a leisure park is an ambitious project requiring rigorous planning and execution. This guide has taken you through each essential step, from feasibility study to final delivery. By following these steps, you can minimize unforeseen events, optimize your budget and ensure the success of your project. The key lies in careful preparation and proactive management of the different phases. With a methodical approach and the application of best practices, your vision of a thriving leisure park will become a reality.