A HEREFORDSHIRE community group which is planning to take over its local pub says it is fantastic that it has been handed a £300,000 government grant.
Open Arms Kington has been told that the Government has awarded them the grant towards its plan of buying and restoring the Oxford Arms in Kington.
One of the director of the community interest company Judith Gardner, who is also a town councillor, said the project was one of only eight grants nationwide, and the only one so far for Herefordshire.
She said: “This is fantastic news. The opportunity to build a community hub centred in this well-loved building is a dream come true.”
The group of locals wants to build on the current successful pub and B&B businesses, and use profits towards projects that benefit Kington.
At the top of the list is the creation of a dedicated space for young people in the community.
The Open Arms Kington group which wants to buy The Oxford Arms. Picture: Rob Davies
Fellow director Patrick Conrad said the group's plans would help improve Kington’s local economy through creating new jobs, training and volunteering opportunities.
"We will also be investing in and conserving a landmark listed building, which just happens to be my favourite Kington pub," he said.
Over the past six months, thanks to grants from the National Lottery community fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund, the group has been carrying out a feasibility study and consulting with the local community on plans.
"So far, we have received a huge amount of support and positive encouragement from the vast majority of those consulted," the group said.
They said some idea include cinema nights for the family, live music and a youth club.
For the next six months, the group will be focussing on generating the match funding it needs in order to claim the full award.
"We would love to hear from any local people, trusts, socially responsible businesses, or indeed fundraisers, who can help us achieve the £100,000 target we have set to raise from local sources," the group said, adding that it can be contacted via the Open Arms Kington Facebook page, website, or email.
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