WISSETT PLOUGH VILLAGE SHOP
WISSET, NR HALESWORTH, SUFFOLK,
IP19 0JE
APPLICANT AND BACKGROUND
Nick and Debbie Sumner are the owners and licensees of the Plough Inn at Wissett near Halesworth, Suffolk. This project has been developed to meet the need for a village shop, as shown by strong community support. There is no shop or other services in the village, the nearest shops being in Halesworth requiring a 7 mile round trip. Pub is the Hub have acted as advisors to Suffolk County Council and, in particular, their Suffolk Rural Economy Scheme which provides grants for projects in rural communities.
PROJECT SUMMARY
A new timber building closely adjoining the pub has been constructed. In addition, an external paved patio area for the sale of garden plants and the provision of tables and chairs has been created. Coffees can be served from the shop. The shop has been finished to a very high standard and in the main, uses local suppliers to offer an extensive range of essential groceries, fruit, vegetables, dairy products and newspapers. This project has supported local employment opportunities with a full time job being created.
OUTCOMES
The Plough has become very much the centre of Wissett village. Nick and Debbie Sumner have revived the fortunes of this pub by introducing a range of varied initiatives. The shop has strengthened the pub business and, importantly, its long term viability. Their investment is relatively high at £20,000 but they are very confident that this expenditure will be more than justified. Turnover figures in the early months of trading since opening confirm this confidence.
LESSONS TO LEARN
- Strong support from Parish Council and local residents gave the licensees the confidence to develop the service.
- Strong and committed Licensees who have demonstrated a clear vision and ability to deliver the project.
- The project has received a great deal of positive publicity which has benefited the new shop as well as the pub business overall.
- Use of local suppliers has been a great success.
- Strong support from Suffolk County Council
PROJECT CAPITAL COSTS
Total project capital costs £25,0000.00
Applicant contribution £20,000.00
Suffolk Rural Economy Scheme Grant £5,000.00
LICENSEE CONTACT
Nick & Debbie Sumner Tel. 01986 872201
PUB OWNER: Independent
