Village rallies to reopen historic Ivy Inn as community fundraising continues

A community campaign to reopen the historic Ivy Inn in Heddington, Wiltshire, has taken another step forward as volunteers launch a new fundraising drive to transform the 17th-century pub into a thriving village hub.

The pub closed its doors in May 2024, but local residents refused to let it disappear. Earlier this year, the Friends of The Ivy successfully raised £435,000 through a community share offer, allowing the village to purchase the much-loved building.

The group has now launched a second investment campaign, hoping to raise an additional £50,000 towards a total redevelopment target of £284,000. The funding will help modernise the property while preserving its historic character.

Plans include a new kitchen, improved toilet facilities, upgraded utilities and structural improvements to create a welcoming venue for both residents and visitors.

Campaign secretary Dave Denny said the vision extends far beyond reopening a traditional pub.

"We see it becoming the heartbeat of the community," he said, explaining that the venue could help tackle rural isolation by providing a place where people can meet throughout the day.

Local resident Colin Meeke, who has lived in Heddington for more than three decades, described The Ivy as an important part of village life. He said the pub has long hosted community events, family celebrations, charity fundraisers and social gatherings, making it a place where neighbours come together.

Located close to The Ridgeway National Trail, the White Horse Trail and the Wiltshire Cycleway, organisers also hope the restored pub will attract walkers, cyclists and tourists exploring the Wiltshire countryside.

If fundraising is successful and planning permission is approved, construction work is expected to begin later this year, bringing the community one step closer to welcoming customers back through the doors of one of Wiltshire's oldest village pubs.