AFTER years of uncertainty and a determined campaign, there is some good news for pubgoers in Broadbottom.
The Harewood Arms on Market Street is staying open.
But while the much-loved village pub has been saved, plans for a full community takeover have been shelved for now.
The future of the establishment has been in doubt since it was put up for sale by owner Phil Wild, who is looking to retire. In response, local residents formed the Broadbottom Community Pub Group, launching a major effort to bring the pub into community ownership.
Backed by strong local support, the campaign gathered pace over the past two years, raising £25,000 in cash through donations, events and grants, alongside pledges totalling £167,000.
There were even provisional arrangements in place to secure a further £250,000 in investment.
However, despite agreeing a price with the owner, the group has confirmed that the timescale required to complete the deal proved unworkable.
Instead, the pub will remain in private ownership, with new tenants set to take over day-to-day running under a long-term agreement. Plans are also in place for the owner to develop the adjoining brewery business with his son.
For campaigners, it’s a bittersweet outcome. While their vision of turning The Harewood Arms into a community-owned hub will not go ahead as planned, the building itself – previously described as a “vital social focal point” – has been secured for the future.
Supporters have already helped ensure the pub remains a thriving part of village life, with campaign organisers noting it has been busier than ever during the effort to save it.
The group has now taken the decision to suspend the campaign, though it has not ruled out a future attempt should circumstances change.
Questions also remain over what will happen to the remaining funds. Of the £25,000 raised, around £10,000 has already been spent, and a £5,000 grant must be returned, leaving roughly £10,000 still to be allocated. Options include holding the money for a future bid or donating it to other community causes.
A public meeting will be held at Broadbottom Community Centre on Monday, April 20, at 7pm, with local residents invited to discuss the next steps and reflect on the campaign.
Despite the setback, there is a sense of pride among those involved. The pub is now officially listed as an Asset of Community Value by Tameside Council, giving the community greater protection should it ever come up for sale again.
And with new legislation expected later this year aimed at strengthening community rights to buy such assets, the story of The Harewood Arms may not be over just yet.
For now, though, locals can raise a glass knowing their village pub will continue to serve the community.