The third round of the Government's Community Ownership Fund announced on 12th May, makes it easier for local communities to "seize back control of prized local assets" including their pubs at risk with £1 million available. In addition match funding is being reduced to as low as 10%.
It can also be used for a wide range of other community facilities.
One pub might benefit
The Fund may be of use in one local Hampshire town.
In Whitchurch, the Red House, a valued Listed Building, is closed and awaiting the outcome of an Appeal to change its use to residential property. Meanwhile it is deteriorating and has become an eyesore.
The Fund is already supporting nearly 100 projects throughout the UK – maybe something for the Whitchurch Town Council to consider give that so many pubs have already closed which has been detrimental to the economic and social needs of the town.
Welcomed by CAMRA
The launch of the third round has been welcomed by the Campaign for Real Ale.
Chairman Nik Antona said:
“Our locals are a vital part of both our social fabric and our local economies. They deserve to be protected as community assets which is why more and more local people up and down the country are taking over their local as a community-owned pub when it is faced with closure, demolition or conversion.
“It is really encouraging to see Levelling Up Ministers announcing today that another round of funding is being made available through the Government’s Community Ownership Fund. This funding is a lifeline for local people who have come together to save their local pub and keep it at the heart of community life.
“I hope that as many communities as possible that are looking to save their local pub submit bids for funding."
Full details are available on the government’s website:
COMMUNITY FUNDING
COMMUNITY FUNDING
