The Chitterne Community Pub Group (CCPG) received the keys to the pub on December 20 and plans to have it open again by Easter, once refurbishment works have been completed such as modernising the kitchen and installing some new flooring.
The CCPG, which was founded in 2018 with the aim of buying the pub on the community’s behalf, is also seeking a tenant to run the pub and live in the upstairs accommodation.
A sale price was agreed in March 2024, when the pub had been closed for four years, and the task of raising the money began.
The King’s Head in Chitterne (Image: Trevor Porter) Around £340,000 has been raised by issuing community shares to more than 100 investors. This, along with a £100,000 loan, has enabled the purchase to take place.
The group is now seeking a tenant to turn it in a thriving community hub.
Former owner Kenton Stone had previously submitted plans to convert the pub into a house, saying in 2023 he had been unable to find a buyer for eight years.
Mr Stone’s scheme was rejected by Wiltshire Council, and Mr Stone was unsuccessful when he appealed for the Planning Inspectorate to overturn the decision.
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CCPG committee member John Dillon said: “It was really exciting to complete the purchase. We’ve been after it for years.
“The feeling in the village was fantastic. I don’t think people could believe it!
“It’s not about making massive profits, it’s about being sustainable and keeping it open for the community.”
Further stages of the project include the establishment of a small village shop and café and the installation of a prescription dispenser in partnership with the nearest GP surgery.
The shop would cater to the village’s ‘single and retired’ residents, allowing them to purchase essentials without travelling by car or waiting for public transport, and the café would provide a space for people to socialise outside of typical pub hours.
“If there’s somewhere people could go and meet each other during the day, that would be great,” said John.
Anyone who is interested in running the pub – or knows someone who might be – should email chitternecombensoc@outlook.com
CCPG is continuing to raise money for the renovation works and to pay off the loan.
John said: “If you would like to invest, we would love to have you onboard – it’s great fun. Details can be found at www.chitternecbs.co.uk.”