Community Benefit Society

In May 2020 it became clear that the New Inn in Halse was likely to close in just three months time going the way of many of the country’s once thriving village pubs . A group of interested locals initially formed a steering group to examine the feasibility of purchasing the pub so it could continue trading. Following extensive consultation, surveys and local feedback it became clear that not only was it feasible but also desirable (to save the pub) to many residents, not just of Halse but also Ash Priors and Fitzhead.

The Halse and District Community Benefit Society (CBS – view our rules here) was thus created , specifically to act as the legal medium by which the pub could be purchased. Its constitution made it clear that the pub should be not just owned but also run by and for the benefit of the local population. Membership of the society remains open to not just local residents but to all who are prepared to invest in the pub. Get the latest share offer application document here.

The benefits to the local community of going down this route were many, including a café, return of postal services, provision of ready meals and take away meals to mention a few but the real value has been to retain it as a meeting place for all in our locality