01-Aug-2006 Local Enterprise - The Heart of the Community
With over 70 per cent of villages without a shop or post office and 60 per cent without a pub, Pub is the Hub - set up through the Rural Action Programme of Business in the Community - has been encouraging pubs to add community services to the menu since 2001.
Funding from the Regional Development Agency has allowed the campaign to be rolled out across the East Midlands this year.
Over 300 pubs nationwide have been transformed to include a range of facilities including gyms, post offices, bakeries, church services and pharmacy collection points.
Campaign Director John Longden said: "The scheme was started through a concern at the lack of community services in some areas. Pub is the Hub helps keep pubs trading by offering additional uses for them, supports local needs and creates jobs - while ensuring the community retains its heart."
PITH Heart of Community 20060800.pdf