This was to include broadening the range of sporting and other activities to be held at the ground, and to this end Cooke has recently appointed recently appointed JAND Events for the organisation and management of events, who will be based in The Courtyard on bypass road.
They have been appointed to take over and manage the grounds activities calendar, and will work closely with the Phuket Cricket Group (PCG) Chairman to ensure that PCG members are not disadvantaged by these new arrangements.
Three long standing members have agreed to form an advisory and consultative group with whom Cooke will consult with from time to time.
The group comprises; Mark Ashman, Mark Whetton, and Stuart Reading, of which Mark Ashman has agreed to be Chairman and the public face of the ACG.
In a press release issued by Cooke this week he said that he anticipated an increase in ground use fees augmented by a personal contribution to develop the Clubhouse facilities, these will include a shaded drinks garden, children’s play area, bar area furniture, improved access and parking.
He added, “Under advice, I have decided not to proceed with the property development behind the clubhouse, instead I will direct my remaining energies to the development of the ACG.
“I will await developments, and when the time is right, exploit the land to the best advantage of the ACG. In this respect, ‘The Boundary Bar’ must be made to work as a regular afternoon/evening venue, and sports bar, to this end I will further apply my energies.”