New hope for closed pub as community status secured

16 hours ago

Joe WillisLocal Democracy Reporting Service

The Coore Arms closed in February after its landlord said he could not afford to run the pub

Google A traditional white‑painted pub called the Coore Arms, with dark brown window frames, a small stone porch at the entrance, and hanging signs for "Coore Arms Pub & Dining". Wooden benches and potted plants sit outside on a quiet village street. — The Coore Arms closed in February after its landlord said he could not afford to run the pub

A village pub has been recognised as an asset of community value, following a campaign by residents.

North Yorkshire Council has approved an application to list the Coore Arms in Scruton near Northallerton, following its closure in February.

The decision means the pub will receive additional protection if its owners decide to sell, giving the community an opportunity to put together a bid to buy it.

It reverses the outcome of an earlier bid, which was rejected after officers found insufficient evidence that the pub's community activities went beyond its normal operation as a business.

Following the original rejection of Scruton Parish Council's application, more than 50 residents attended a meeting to discuss how to save the pub.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the Coore Arms closed after its landlord said he could no longer afford to keep it operating at a loss.

It had been advertised for sale at £295,000, with villagers concerned it could eventually be converted into housing.

However, it is understood the pub has recently been removed from the market.

'Focal point'

The successful application was submitted by Coore Memorial Hall CIO, with campaigners arguing that the pub played an important role in bringing villagers together.

Susan Rogers, chair of the Save the Coore Arms working group, said a recent village survey had revealed just how much residents missed having the pub as a focal point for the community.

"Residents felt that the village had lost its cohesive core, because you didn't see people or bump into people as much as before, and felt the community becoming more isolated," she said.

"If they were just walking past on a summer's day and people were outside drinking, they'd stop and chat.

"It was the focal point of the village and they didn't realise just how important it was until it was no longer there."

In its decision letter, the council confirmed that the building had previously been used in a way that furthered the social wellbeing or interests of local residents.

It also concluded that it was realistic to believe the building could again serve such a purpose within the next five years.

The designation will remain in place for five years, subject to any changes in circumstances.

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