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Appendix

6.9 Site Evaluation Checklist

Purpose

Choosing the right premises is one of the most significant decisions in the development of LAMBA.

A beautiful interior cannot compensate for a poor location, insufficient daylight, low pedestrian activity or an unsuitable building.

This checklist provides an objective framework for evaluating potential premises. Each category should be scored before making any leasing decision.

No single property will satisfy every criterion perfectly. The objective is to identify the premises that best supports the long-term vision of the project.

Site Evaluation Scorecard

1. Neighbourhood Fit

Weight: Essential

Questions to consider:

  • Does the neighbourhood align with LAMBA’s values?

  • Is there an active local community?

  • Are there independent cafés, galleries, record shops or creative businesses nearby?

  • Do people spend time in the area rather than simply pass through?

  • Could LAMBA realistically become part of this neighbourhood?

Score (1–5): _____

2. Natural Light

Weight: Essential

Questions to consider:

  • Does the premises receive abundant daylight?

  • Are the windows large enough?

  • Does sunlight reach the seating area?

  • Does the space feel warm throughout the day?

Score (1–5): _____

3. Street Visibility

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Can pedestrians immediately understand what the space is?

  • Is the café visible from multiple directions?

  • Is the frontage inviting?

  • Does the architecture encourage people to look inside?

Score (1–5): _____

4. Footfall

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Is there consistent pedestrian activity?

  • Are people walking slowly rather than rushing?

  • Does activity continue throughout the day?

  • Is weekend footfall equally strong?

Score (1–5): _____

5. Ceiling Height & Architectural Character

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Does the space feel generous?

  • Are ceilings suitably high?

  • Does the building possess character?

  • Can the architecture support the calm atmosphere envisioned for LAMBA?

Score (1–5): _____

6. Floor Area & Layout

Weight: Essential

Questions to consider:

  • Can the premises comfortably accommodate 15–20 seated guests?

  • Is there space for the coffee bar, kitchen and DJ booth?

  • Can circulation remain comfortable during busy periods?

  • Can furniture be reconfigured for events?

Score (1–5): _____

7. Kitchen & Back-of-House

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Can an open coffee bar and kitchen be created?

  • Is there sufficient ventilation?

  • Is there adequate plumbing?

  • Can the required equipment be installed efficiently?

Score (1–5): _____

8. Storage & Office

Weight: Medium

Questions to consider:

  • Is there a basement or rear storage room?

  • Can dry storage be organised effectively?

  • Is there space for a small office?

  • Can outdoor furniture be stored securely?

Score (1–5): _____

9. Ventilation & Building Services

Weight: Essential

Questions to consider:

  • Is commercial ventilation already installed?

  • Does the electrical capacity support café equipment?

  • Is plumbing suitable?

  • Are building services likely to require significant upgrading?

Score (1–5): _____

10. Outdoor Seating

Weight: Medium

Questions to consider:

  • Can two or three outdoor tables be accommodated?

  • Does the location receive pleasant sunlight?

  • Is the pavement wide enough?

  • Will outdoor seating enhance rather than obstruct the street?

Score (1–5): _____

11. Accessibility

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Can all guests enter comfortably?

  • Is there adequate circulation?

  • Can pushchairs and wheelchairs move easily?

  • Are toilet facilities suitable?

Score (1–5): _____

12. Noise & Acoustic Environment

Weight: High

Questions to consider:

  • Is external traffic noise acceptable?

  • Can good internal acoustics be achieved?

  • Will neighbouring businesses create excessive noise?

  • Does the street atmosphere complement the listening experience?

Score (1–5): _____

13. Commercial Viability

Weight: Essential

Questions to consider:

  • Does the rent align with the financial assumptions?

  • Are service charges reasonable?

  • Are lease terms acceptable?

  • Does the investment required remain realistic?

Score (1–5): _____

Overall Assessment

Neighbourhood: _______

Address: _______________________

Viewing Date: ___________________

Rent: _______________________

Floor Area: _______________________

Total Score (Maximum 65):

________ / 65

Decision Guide

58–65
Excellent opportunity. Strongly consider proceeding.

50–57
Very promising. Review any weaker categories carefully.

42–49
Suitable only if significant advantages outweigh the shortcomings.

Below 42
Continue searching.

Final Reflection

Before committing to any lease, ask one final question:

If another identical premises became available tomorrow, would we still choose this one?

If the answer is uncertain, continue looking.

The right location is worth waiting for.