Saving the Drovers

Gussage Community Benefit Society Ltd.

October 2023, Welcome Margaret, Thom and Kesh new tenants at the Drovers, currently refitting for reopening in a few weeks, more info soon.

A Twenty-month, David and Goliath battle waged by determined  supporters to save the very heart of our Community

A brief history of the hard won fight to save this much loved pub 

  • November 2014 - pub closed and boarded
  • New Year’s Eve 2014 - developer’s planning application goes public, attempting to convert the pub into large house - 200 objections received
  • January 2015 - community open meeting unanimously agrees to fight to save the pub
  • February 2015 - the Drovers is formally recognised as an Asset of Community Value and the Community’s intent to bid is recorded
  • Spring 2015 - the Gussage Community Benefit Society Ltd is established and the Community Share offer launched to raise funds to purchase, and re-furbish the pub. The community decides that it will let the pub to professionals to ensure the experience it needs to thrive

 

  • June 2015 - the change of use planning application is refused - the Drovers is viable and must remain as a pub!
  • Autumn/Winter 2015 - Mortgage and share capital in place and purchase negotiations advanced
  • February 2016 - In line with the Community decision to appoint experienced professionals the pub tenants are appointed to establish and run the pub operation
  • March 11th 2016 - the purchase is complete and an army of Volunteers and Contractors get to work on bringing the pub back to life
  • July 9th 2016 - Huge celebrations as the pub re-opens
  • March 2nd 2019 - New Lease holders , Harvelle, Martin and Steve take over to guide the pub through its next chapter.
  • October 2023, - New Lease Holders Margaret, Thom and Kesh