Plans to bring a much-loved Wiltshire pub back to life have taken a major step forward after a deal was struck to buy the building.
The Ivy Inn at Heddington, between Calne and Devizes, closed in 2024 when owner Wadworth Brewery put the 17th-century pub on the market. The closure prompted residents to launch a determined campaign to save what they describe as the “heartbeat” of their village.
Now the Friends of The Ivy group has confirmed it has agreed terms with Wadworth to purchase the property, with the aim of reopening it as both a pub and a community hub.
To complete the sale, the group needs to raise at least £350,000 to cover the purchase price, insurance, and essential renovation work. More than £200,000 has already been pledged, and supporters ultimately hope to raise around £800,000 through a community share scheme.
The share offer, which launched on Monday 22nd September and runs until 31st October, allows supporters to invest between £100 and £20,000. Every shareholder will become a member of the Community Benefit Society and will have a vote on the future running of the pub.
Chairman Dr Paul Moyle-Harris said: “This is an emotional more than a financial investment to save a unique part of British heritage. The Ivy is an iconic inn, and we must do all we can to safeguard it. Everyone who invests will be playing their part in making history.”
If the plans go ahead, the Friends want The Ivy to serve locally sourced food and drink under the motto Real Ales, Real Community, Real Wiltshire. The group also hopes to explore ideas such as a café, a small farm shop, and a wood-burning stove to make the pub more energy efficient.
Dr Moyle-Harris added that the long-term ambition is for the Ivy Inn to once again become a destination pub, attracting visitors from across Wiltshire and beyond.
Photo Credit: Friends of The Ivy
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