We want to revitalise our beloved high streets and preserve the rich architectural heritage that defines most pubs. We believe in honouring the past while building a vibrant future, preventing historical buildings from falling into disrepair or demolition.
While traditional pubs and restaurants hold a special place in our hearts, we recognise that their concentration in some areas can be unsustainable. Instead of saying goodbye entirely, we aim for a balanced approach.
Supporting Existing Businesses:
Our immediate priority is to support current independent establishments. We'll assist with debt restructuring, explore innovative ways to attract more customers, and boost local advertising. By fostering collaboration among businesses and localising supply chains, we can create a stronger, more resilient independent sector where local businesses proudly support local suppliers.
Reimagining Empty Spaces:
For areas with a high concentration of vacant pubs and eatery buildings, the possibilities for transformation are endless. We envision a diverse range of spaces that cater to community needs and interests, including:
Social & Entertainment Hubs:
* Soft-bars offering mocktails, games, and entertainment.
* Intimate music venues fostering international talent and providing rehearsal spaces.
* Lively comedy clubs.
* Versatile social venues for parties and local events.
* Family-friendly spaces with dedicated play areas.
Community & Learning Centers:
* Inviting cafes, including "eat-all-you-like" buffets and "buy-one/give-one" models.
* Dedicated study spaces.
* Inspiring art spaces and community museums.
* Revitalised community libraries.
* Engaging mystery and game rooms.
Support & Wellness Initiatives:
* Shared business spaces for budding entrepreneurs.
* Theatre, performance, and rehearsal venues.
* Supportive homeless living spaces or warming centres.
* "Cottage hospitals" for minor conditions and wound treatment.
* Educational and tuition centres.
* Essential soup kitchens.
* Safe spaces for individuals with profound impairments and mental health challenges.
* Disabled support centres offering services like wheelchair repairs and assistance with daily tasks.
Local Commerce & Culture:
* Community retail spaces for independent traders.
* Vibrant indoor farmers' markets.
A Thriving Future for Our Communities:
By embracing this diverse approach, we can restore the vibrant pub and restaurant culture, revitalise shopping districts, reignite community spirit, and significantly increase foot traffic in our hamlets, villages, towns, and cities. This directly benefits the local economy, attracts new businesses, and creates valuable jobs.
The beauty of this vision lies in its adaptability. Each locality can tailor these ideas to best suit its unique character and needs. We refuse to let stunning architectural gems – whether Gothic, Art Deco, Regency, or Medieval – fade into disrepair or face demolition. Our goal is to see these areas admired, their history preserved, and enjoyed by all. Each transformed space will offer a distinct appeal, drawing visitors from beyond the immediate community. Crucially, we believe in empowering local residents to have a direct say in how these buildings are repurposed, ensuring sustained community support.
Committed to Local and Green:
We are unwavering in our commitment to always prioritise local services, producers, tradespeople, and suppliers
for all work and provisions.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to making every revitalised area more environmentally friendly. Where possible, spaces will operate entirely on renewable energy, and for others, it will serve as a vital supplement. We are confident that as technology advances, even better green solutions will become available for future upgrades.
Beyond the Traditional Model:
To further enhance our vision, we're exploring innovative ways to create sustainable communities:
Community Membership: With sufficient contributions, we aim to establish a membership system. Members would enjoy monthly freebies and access to cost-price offerings at affiliated outlets worldwide, covering food, drinks, and event entry. Non-members would still benefit from low prices, though not at cost.
Sustainable Income Streams: For some venues, we are exploring alternative income sources, such as generating revenue equivalent to a part-time minimum wage. This provides crucial financial security during quieter periods, ensuring staff are supported even when custom is low.