The residents of Nympsfield are coming together to preserve the heart of their village—the Rose & Crown Inn—from being transformed into flats. This beloved Grade II listed pub, recognized as a registered asset of community value, has been a cornerstone of village life since the mid-1800s. Despite enduring years of under-investment, it served its final pint in March 2023.
After the pub’s closure two years ago, the Nympsfield Community Pub group formed with a mission to buy and reopen the pub. Their initial efforts brought them close to a purchase, but complications arose when the owner insisted that the sale include the stables on the property. This change reset negotiations, but the community’s resolve remains unshaken.
To raise funds and keep spirits high, a pop-up pub and barbecue event is scheduled for May 17, from 3pm to 9pm, in the Rose & Crown Inn’s car park. Volunteers have worked tirelessly to prepare for this gathering, which aims to generate vital funds to support the group’s bid to purchase and restore the pub.
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In their latest newsletter, the community group shared promising developments: a productive meeting with local MP Dr. Simon Opher has brought attention to forthcoming Community Right to Buy legislation. This legislation will enhance the ability of communities to acquire valued assets like pubs and shops, although the exact timeline remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the current owner has signaled plans to put the pub back on the market, prompting the group to prepare for renewed negotiations.
Thanks to a generous £2,450 grant from Gloucestershire County Council’s Build Back Better scheme, supported by Councillor Wendy Thomas, the group has begun initial renovation phases. They continue to seek additional funding opportunities to ensure the pub can be purchased and restored as a community hub.
Attendees of the pop-up event are encouraged to bring cash to maximize contributions, though card payments will also be accepted. Parking is advised at the nearby Village Hall or St Joseph’s School staff parking to respect local residents.
The people of Nympsfield remain steadfast in their commitment to save the Rose & Crown Inn, a symbol of their community’s history and spirit.