'Your pub needs you!' - Residents ready to band together to save village pub
Langley residents are on a mission to save their village pub.
A meeting is to take place on Wednesday evening (April 9) to discuss the future of St Dunstan's Inn.
Having been up for sale for around two years and with no prospective buyers on the horizon, the pub faces the very real possibility of shutting down.
As such, current landlords Will and Sarah Cantlie are now looking at the possibility of community ownership.
They said: "As many of you are aware, the village pub, St Dunstan's Inn is at a crossroads.
"We would like to explore the possibility of the community coming together to own the pub and the operational options that could work.
"The idea of a community-owned pub is not new, and there are several successful models to draw inspiration from.
"Community ownership can ensure that St Dunstan Inn continues to operate as a central hub for social gatherings, celebrations, and village events.
"The future of St Dunstan's Inn lies in our hands. By coming together as a community, we have the power to secure the legacy of Langley village pub and ensure its continued operation for years to come."
The meeting takes place at St Dunstan's Inn at 7.30pm on Wednesday.
It will offer a chance to explore the various options available, potential funding sources and to gauge the community's appetite for a community-owned pub.
There are several models under which a community-owned pub can operate.
A Community Interest Company (CIC) sees surpluses reinvested into the business or the community rather than being used to maximize profits for shareholders and owners.
Meanwhile, an Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) offers tax advantages and has been used successfully in other communities to acquire local assets.
Will and Sarah added: "The meeting is an opportunity for everyone to voice their opinions, share ideas, and commit to taking action.
"We will also discuss potential funding avenues, including grants, loans, and community fundraising initiatives.
"We look forward to seeing you all at the meeting and working together to keep the spirit of St Dunstan's Inn alive.
"Your pub needs you!"
Questions and suggestions can be sent to [email protected].
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