The Wellington Pub Company announced its plans to sell The Crauford Arms last August. But because the site is the last pub in North Maidenhead which is listed as an Asset of Community Value, the decision triggered a six-month fundraising period for the community to step in.
The Crauford Arms Society Ltd (CASL) set up the campaign to save the pub, and aimed to raise £305,000 through community investment to purchase and run it successfully, as well as using it for further community initiatives.
CASL said it wants to “transform the pub into a thriving, viable and sustainable business, owned by local shareholders and run for the benefit of the community it serves”.
Leader of The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Cllr Simon Dudley, has confirmed that he will ask the PM to support the campaign.
According to the council, a total of 129 investors have raised £310,000 alongside a grant of £30,000 and a £70,000 loan.
The council have also loaned the campaigners £65,000, to help to cover the VAT on the purchase price.
Council documents from a cabinet meeting on 23 March stated: “The chairman commented that the society was a shining example of when a community mobilised to create positive action.
“He offered to provide the society with a letter from the council to the current owners, and facilitate a similar letter from the constituency MP.
“He highlighted that a report would be coming to Cabinet in May to look at options for Article 4 directions to remove permitted development rights on pubs.”
May’s history with pubs
In 2012 the PM introduced late-night levies and early morning restriction orders, and proposed a minimum unit price for alcohol, which she then led a revolt against.
These policies were intended to rebalance the Licensing Act in favour of local communities, but have since been slammed by industry groups such as the ALMR and BBPA.