OUR COMMUNITY PUB STORY
The pub was put on the open market in September 2019. Following the successful application to denote The White House as an Asset of Community Value, the community had six months to put in a bid to buy and manage the future of the pub. In the UK, more than 100 pubs have been taken over by the community and every one of them continues to thrive.
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In March 2020, we had our application for the Plunkett Foundation’s 'More Than A Pub' grant/loan approved. And following months of campaigning, at share offer close we had 450 shareholders and had raised enough money to make a strong bid to purchase The White House. Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, May 2020 brought us the good news!
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During August numerous professionals and volunteers attended site, carrying out essential repairs, renovations and general improvements to the building and gardens. Following the removal of several overgrown and unsafe trees the garden received a good tidy up. While the tenants accommodation and the pub itself were fully cleaned, repainted and updated ready for opening.
In September, Johnny Roberts was appointed as the tenant landlord, bringing a wealth of pub and hospitality experience to The White House. Johnny and his family moved into the pub at the end of September, ready for the grand re-opening in October 2020!
Beyond reopening there is still much to do at The White House as we bring our long-term vision to life, putting the pub back at the heart of the community. Do come and visit, and please stay in touch via the website and our social media channels. More to come as the journey continues….