Brandon Lewis, Community Pubs Minister was at the launch today of a new fund set up by Norfolk County Council in partnership with Pub is The Hub to help Norfolk pubs to create community facilities and services where there are no others in the local area.
Pubs can apply for grants of up to £4000 to fund projects that would meet a local need or can help the community to thrive. Examples of projects pubs are running across the country range from fitness classes and meals on wheels to farm shops, delicatessens and disabled access facilities.
The launch of the scheme took place at the Royal Norfolk Show where Norfolk pub owners and managers were there to hear more about the scheme, along with the Chairman of Norfolk County Council, Brian Hannah and Community Pubs Minister and Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth Brandon Lewis.
Norfolk County Council Leader George Nobbs attended the launch and said: “This initiative has the potential to reinforce the pub’s traditional role at the heart of our towns and villages, helping them and their communities to thrive. I hope landlords will be inspired to come up with innovative ideas at pubs throughout Norfolk.”
Pub is The Hub assists with guidance on availability of project funding, and having a thorough understanding of the pub business, is able to advise on the best way to progress with each individual project.
The £30,000 fund is now open for applications. Pubs can find out more about applying for funding by contacting Terry Stork, East Anglia Advisor for Pub is The Hub on 07789 275908 or email terrystork@pubisthehub.org.uk.