What is the East Harptree Community Benefit Society?

 

The EHCBS was set up by the East Harptree community in 2023 by a small group of local volunteers determined not to let our historic pub close permanently or fall into the hands of developers. The aim was to purchase The Waldegrave and engage an experienced tenant to run it as a thriving business for the benefit of the community. 

 

In just a little over a year, the society raised £253k in community shares, secured a £250k Community Ownership Fund from the government (plus other additional grants and income) to make an offer and purchase the pub – an incredible achievement. 
 

What does a community-owned pub mean?

 

Our pub (the buildings and garden) is community-owned in perpetuity but currently run by a tenant. In short that means we own and are responsible for the building and grounds but everything to do with prices, beer, music (you name it) is up to our experienced tenant, who runs the pub with paid, professional staff. 

 

What next?

 

Now that our landlord has opened the doors, the EHCBS is here to support him and his team in making the business a success, look after the interest of our shareholders, and consider the long-term future of the asset as a whole.