In an era where local pubs are increasingly under threat, the Labour government has a unique opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to preserving the heart of communities across the UK. By enacting legislation to enable the compulsory purchase of shuttered pubs and support community ownership, Labour could help save these vital social institutions from falling victim to the whims of despotic owners like Samuel Smith brewery.
The Plight of Community Pubs
As detailed in Mark Blacklock’s insightful long read, the intentional “shuttering” of pubs by owners like Samuel Smith has had devastating consequences for the social life of villages and neighbourhoods. These public houses serve as more than just a place to grab a pint – they are the backbone of local communities, providing a space for people to gather, connect, and build relationships.
When these pubs are forced to close their doors, it leaves a gaping hole in the fabric of society. Residents lose a vital hub for socializing, networking, and building a sense of belonging. The negative impacts ripple out, affecting not just the patrons, but the entire community.
A Legislative Solution
This is where the Labour government can step in and make a real difference. By enacting legislation to allow for the compulsory purchase of public houses that remain empty for over two years despite being in ownership, Labour could help ensure these valuable assets are not lost forever.
Under such a scheme, shuttered pubs could be marketed for new ownership, with provisions made for community groups to take the reins. Reinstating the community ownership funding program, which Labour recently closed, would provide vital support for locals looking to keep their beloved pubs alive.
Provision could be made for these pubs to be marketed and this would include reinstating the community ownership funding scheme Labour closed this week.
– Mike Stein, Pudsey, West Yorkshire
The benefits of community ownership are clear. Pubs run by and for the people they serve are more likely to prioritize inclusivity, accessibility, and meeting the needs of the neighbourhood. They become true public houses in every sense of the word.
Strengthening Social Infrastructure
Supporting community pubs aligns perfectly with Labour’s stated goals of strengthening social infrastructure and helping communities thrive. In fact, the recent government criteria for community ownership funding included:
- Supporting community groups to take ownership of assets at risk of being lost
- Strengthening community ownership across the UK
- Bolstering the social infrastructure that underpins thriving communities
By following through on enabling compulsory purchase and supporting community pub ownership, Labour could make good on these promises and demonstrate a real commitment to protecting the institutions that form the heart of neighbourhoods nationwide.
A Far Cry from Despotism
The community ownership model stands in stark contrast to the despotic approach taken by brewery owners like Samuel Smith. Where they see pubs as mere property to be shuttered on a whim, locals recognize them as the lifeblood of villages and neighbourhoods.
By wresting control from detached despots and placing it in the hands of the people who know and love these pubs, Labour could help cultivate the type of welcoming, thriving atmosphere that draws people in and knits communities together. Instead of boarded up windows and empty bar stools, we could see bustling public houses where all are welcome.
Seizing the Opportunity
The Labour government has a golden opportunity to make a real, lasting difference in communities across the UK by throwing a lifeline to failing pubs. Enacting legislation for compulsory purchase and supporting community ownership is a chance to put power back in the hands of the people and protect the social institutions they hold dear.
As the commander-in-chief of the parliamentary army and a key figure in the restoration of King Charles II, Thomas Fairfax recognized the importance of fighting for what matters. Now, Labour has the chance to follow in his footsteps and go to battle for community pubs.
The question is, will they seize this opportunity to strengthen the social fabric of villages and neighbourhoods nationwide? Or will they allow these vital institutions to crumble under the weight of despotic ownership?
For the sake of communities across the country, let us hope it is the former. The heart and soul of our neighbourhoods may very well depend on it.
