By Julie Morgan

Last updated at 12:11, Thursday, 12 April 2012

ENNERDALE Bridge’s Fox and Hounds Inn community enterprise has marked its first anniversary

UNITED EFFORT: The people involved in the community project at the Fox & Hounds one year ago

It is the first venture of its kind in West Cumbria and only the fifth across the UK. It became a co-operative after 174 people donated their own money to buy it and create a community hub in the village.

Over the past year, it has seen a turnover of £297,579 against a business plan forecast of £177,763.

Peter Maher, project co-ordinator, said: “Year Two will see us much more profitable and we hope soon to be able to demonstrate the sustainability of our community enterprise.

“We should not underestimate the dozen or so regular volunteers who have helped out and assisted us to reduce costs in the winter season, and, according to our customers, have contributed to the atmosphere of the pub, as a place for the community and visitors alike.’’

The Inn also offers a library open seven days a week from 11am-11pm.

It is also continuing with plans to build a new shop and visitors centre.

Peter said: “We shared a commonly held view that it would be better to demolish the existing workshop building and create a purpose-built Ennerdale Centre, than to spend a large amount of money refurbishing something with a limited lifespan.

“This view was also held by the Forestry Commission, The Lake District National Park and some of our potential funders.

“We have now reached agreement with the Forestry Commission that they will allow us a 30-year lease on the site and give permission to demolish the existing buildings. This will be on a peppercorn rent of £1 per annum, a gesture that makes the business much more likely to be viable.’’

He said the enterprise group would be looking for funders, hoping to complete the work and open in time for next Easter.

First published at 11:58, Thursday, 12 April 2012
Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk