Not sure what you have now, but something like a Jodel DR1050 offers similar performance to a 172 and would cost you around £23k. Two people full fuel and 150lb of bags, or 3 people and some fuel.
Not sure why the LAA are getting comments regarding aircraft not being sturdy. There are lots of aerobatic aircraft on permits that are much stronger than the average spam can. Compare a Bulldog and a 172 and see which will fold first.
Rod1