In response to the many questions being asked on several occasions, it would appear that the sub-group have become a Community Sub-Committee and are creating another questionnaire…
The White Lion Community Sub-committee:
The community sub-committee comprises Sara Dyke, Izzy Masey, Annie Bowman and Dorothy Rowe and has met 3 times to date. Their first meeting involved “brainstorming” every possible community use of the space within the pub both out of and within licensing hours.
From this meeting a draft consultation questionnaire was devised ready for distribution once the pub is open. The farming community was contacted and likewise Rev Jo for feedback and ideas for pub use.
It should be stressed that the intention is to complement the use of Comrades Hall rather than to compete with it.
The refurbishment of the pub will create a versatile area which can be used as a community space as well as a traditional pub, although the business’s long-term viability depends on it being a successful pub first and foremost and this remains our priority.
The sub-committee have also visited the Axminster Waffle House which runs as a community not for profit cafe and runs community groups and outreach work for community benefit which could be duplicated here in Broadwindsor.
The hope is to release the questionnaire once the pub has opened and have a community notice board within the pub for residents to also have their say. Collaboration with Kate regarding her time and ability to host/facilitate new ventures is also crucial.
The sub-committee is mindful of getting a community space absolutely right and will be thinking carefully about what can realistically be delivered, to start slowly and then gain momentum. The pub will be a truly community pub to be used by all as we have all worked so hard and donated so generously for this vision.
Rick Dyke
Chairman, The White Lion Management Committee