Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting The New Inn in Norton Lindsey, a fine example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with determination and vision. Run by dedicated volunteers, this community-owned pub, shop, and café has become a hub of local life, offering more than just food and drink—it has reinvigorated the social fabric of the village and surrounding areas.
The shop stocks an impressive selection of locally sourced goods, including honey, cheese, and bread sourced within 10 miles, as well as the ever-popular Welcombe Hills wines. For many residents, this has reduced the need for short car journeys to the supermarket, benefitting both the environment and their wallets. Meanwhile, the pub attracts visitors from neighbouring villages, creating a meeting place that extends beyond Norton Lindsey itself. Events such as the Sausage and Cider Festival draw large crowds, highlighting the important role community spaces play in bringing people together.
The benefits of such a venture extend far beyond the practical. For older residents, particularly those living alone, the pub and café provide a vital sense of connection and an opportunity to engage with others. The mental health benefits of such interactions cannot be overstated, especially in rural areas where isolation can be a serious issue. This is why the Plunkett Foundation, which has supported The New Inn and many other community enterprises, has called for greater government recognition of the role these businesses play.
However, maintaining such projects is not without its challenges. Community-run businesses often operate on narrow margins, relying heavily on volunteer support. One particular concern raised during my visit was the impact of the recent increase in employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs). For a business like The New Inn, this change places additional strain on already tight finances. The hospitality sector has warned of closures across the country due to these increases, and community-run ventures are no exception.
The New Inn is proof that community businesses can deliver not just economic benefits but significant social and environmental gains. Reducing the barriers they face, whether through revisiting NIC policies or offering tailored support, would go a long way towards ensuring their sustainability.
Places like The New Inn highlight the strength and resilience of rural communities when given the chance to thrive. They remind us that community businesses are not just about economic success but about creating connections, supporting wellbeing, and preserving the unique character of our villages. They are a testament to what can be achieved when people work together with a shared vision, and their success is something we should all strive to support and sustain.
