This call to action follows the abrupt termination of the existing Community Ownership Fund before Christmas last year.
The fund, which had been instrumental in helping local communities purchase and manage pubs that were at risk of closure or conversion according to CAMRA, came to an end on 23 December.
The final round of funding, which included grants for eight community pubs, marked the conclusion of this vital program. The scheme specifically provided funding for groups to take over facilities that would otherwise be sold, converted or demolished.
CAMRA planning advisory group chair Paul Ainsworth emphasised the critical role pubs play as vibrant centres within their communities.
Vibrant communities
The eight pubs that secured funding in the latest and final round of community ownership funding were:
The Old Neighbourhood, Chalford Hill, Gloucestershire
The Rectory, Chesterfield
The Fox Inn, Little Ryton, Shropshire
The Crown Inn, Newcastle on Clun, Shropshire
The Kings Arms, Cleeve Prior, Worcestershire
The Punch Bowl Inn, Burton in Lonsdale, North Yorkshire
Tafarn y Plu, Llanystumdwy, Gwynedd
The Swan on the Green, West Peckham, Kent
He stated “having thriving pubs at the heart of community life can be a key part of the Government’s mission to have vibrant communities and thriving local economies”.
Ainsworth also highlighted the proven success of the community ownership model, citing the more than 200 community-owned pubs currently thriving across the country.
He lauded these establishments as “popular and successful enterprises- pubs for the people by the people”.
While CAMRA welcomed the Government’s announced plan to introduce a “community right to buy” for local assets like pubs under threat, the organisation stressed this right must be coupled with a robust support system that extends beyond simply acquiring ownership.
The right to buy must come alongside a dedicated program of advice, guidance and funding to make sure community pubs go from strength to strength.
Comprehensive approach
Ainsworth said: “It is vital that as well as a right to buy community assets, groups of local people can also access advice, support and funding.”
He believed this comprehensive approach is essential to ensuring successful bids for community ownership, safeguarding these beloved pubs for future generations.
CAMRA stated a dedicated fund is crucial to empower community groups to not only acquire pubs but also to effectively manage and operate them.
This financial support will help guarantee the long-term sustainability of these community hubs, preserving their vital role in fostering social connections and enriching local life.
