An opportunity to be involved in the creation and operation of a community pub

 “The White Hart” and the “Royal Oak” have been at the centre of the village as pubs for over 150 years. For many years, and up until recently, both have been thriving, well-liked, busy, family friendly destinations with good food and an excellent atmosphere. Both have been the centre of the community and have supported various village events over the years.

Opportunities have now arisen for “The White Hart” and/or “The Royal Oak “to be operated as a community pub, either through ownership or tenancy.  The White Hart has already been registered as an asset of community value.

A public meeting is to be held in St Alban’s Church Hall on Monday 1st December at 7.00pm to discuss and hear views as to whether there is interest in engaging with the current owners about the community taking on the responsibility to operate a pub.

Costs and commitment are associated with the operation of a community pub.  If there is enough interest in taking this opportunity forward, it will require personal investment by those involved.  Naturally other sources of funding can be sought, but these will be dependent on demonstrable commitment from the community.

Across the country there are now many hundreds of very successfully run community pubs, that can create a return for those who invest. However, like any investment, this cannot be guaranteed, and the biggest reason for investing is so that a pub is retained in the village.

PLEASE COME TO THE MEETING TO FIND OUT MORE, WHETHER THAT IS JUST THROUGH INTEREST OR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE MORE INVOLVED.

If you are able to come, or if you cannot attend but would like to be involved, it would be helpful if you could drop an email to WSVA@woodstreetvillage.co.uk.  That way we can start to assemble a list of potential supporters and keep you updated.