Ranil Jayawardena MP has welcomed new funding from the Government to the campaign to save The Bell pub in The Bury, Odiham who will receive £995,000 from the expanded £150 million Community Ownership Fund, as part of the Government’s plan to level up the country.
The Government’s Community Ownership Fund is allowing community groups in North East Hampshire to take ownership of assets and amenities at risk of being lost, enabling them to run these assets for their community, safeguarding town centres and high streets as we grow the economy and secure a brighter future for our communities.
Thanks to this scheme, over 80 more community treasures including historic theatres, pubs and museums will be protected with £33.5 million Government funding, with successful community projects receiving up to £2 million.
This funding will make sure local people continue to reap the benefits of their valued community assets, preserving them for future generations and securing a brighter future for their area. Museums, pubs, parks and cinemas across the country, including the campaign to save The Bell pub here in North East Hampshire which will be kept alive through the £33.5 million funding package announced today.
Through the scheme, voluntary and community groups can bid for funding to acquire important assets, including pubs, so they invest in the long-term future of their area and run amenities for the good of the community.
This is just the latest round of funding as the Government continues to deliver on its long-term plan to level up the whole of the United Kingdom, spreading opportunities and prosperity across the country, whilst also delivering on its five priorities to halve inflation, grow the economy, reduce debt, cut waiting lists and stop the boats.
Commenting, Ranil Jayawardena, Member of Parliament for North East Hampshire said:
“I know from speaking to those across North East Hampshire the vital role that pubs, clubs, and sports grounds play in establishing a sense of community. I am, therefore, delighted that the Government has saved The Bell pub by Community Ownership Fund, making sure this beloved local establishment is protected for this generation and the next.
“I know people North East Hampshire will also be thrilled to hear our local bid was successful, showing that our plan is working as we continue to level up the country to secure a brighter future for our community.”
Commenting, Jacob Young, Minister for Levelling Up, said:
“We know how much these vital community assets mean to people across the country. They are an important lifeline for people young and old, and they’re the beating heart of our towns, cities and villages.
“That’s why we’re stepping in to protect them with a major rescue package, so we stop these great establishments closing or being lost forever and ensure that they continue to sit at the heart of our beloved communities.”