Village steps in to save 17th century pub
A 17th century pub which has been closed for more than a year could soon get a new lease of life after villagers struck a deal to reopen it.
The grade II listed Boot Inn, at Orleton, near Ludlow, closed in June last year when the company which ran it was put into liquidation.
But a community interest company set up to save the pub has now agreed a price with liquidators to take it over.
The pub was recently advertised for sale with an asking price of £550,000.
There had been fears it might have been sold for redevelopment, but the parish council listed it as a 'community asset', giving the community first option to buy the pub.
The new group now plans to launch a share issue for residents to buy a stake in the building. A public meeting has been called to discuss the future of the building for Tuesday next week.
David Flory, of Orleton Community Benefit Society – which is seeking to buy the pub, said: "After months of disappointments, difficult negotiations and dogged determination, the secure future of the 17th century, grade II listed Boot Inn is within sight.
"Negotiations have concluded with the liquidator to agree a realistic price enabling the community to take ownership of this much loved village pub which has been closed for over a year."
Society chairman John Alderman, chairman of Orleton’s Community Benefit Society, added: “Our vision to put The Boot back at the heart of our community is just a few steps away thanks to our many supporters.
"We have received a significant number of generous pledges from individuals and local businesses to provide financial investment.
“Following successful completion of the sale process we will commence repairs and refurbishment of the building and be selecting an experienced and proactive licensee to run the business.”
They said the society would not be involved in the day-to-day running of the business, but would be looking to lease it to a tenant with experience of the pub trade.
It follows a similar arrangement for a community group to take over The Bell in nearby Yarpole.
Mr Flory said the society's bid was supported by both the Campaign for Real Ale, and the Plunkett Foundation, a charity which supports community buy-outs.
"The Boot replicates the successful business model used to purchase many of the other community pubs around the country, the number of which has increased from just five in 2010 to more than 130 to date," he added.
"Interestingly, none has failed."
The community of Neenton, near Bridgnorth, set up a similar rescue group to take over the village's pub which closed in 2006.
It reopened in 2014, and was this year shortlisted for the Best Community Pub title in the Great British Pub Awards.
Mr Flory said he hoped the pub would become a focus for cultural activities, and would include an internet cafe and restaurant specialising in local produce.
The plans for the pub will be unveiled at Orleton Village Hall on Tuesday, from 7.30pm.
For information on the plans and how to invest see thecommunitybootinn.co.uk
