Our Journey
Origins & Formation
-
A group of villagers formed the Golden Lion Working Group (GLWG) in mid‑2016 and approached Ashton Hayes Parish Council to save the historic Golden Lion pub. They received guidance from the Plunkett Foundation to set up a community‑owned enterprise.
-
In 2017, we formally established Ashton Hayes Community Hub Limited (AHCHL), registering as a Community Benefit Society (CBS) with the Financial Conduct Authority. You can find out more about the Interim Management Committee here.
Asset of Community Value
-
The Golden Lion—an award‑winning pub in the 1990s—closed in early 2013.
-
It was first designated an Asset of Community Value (ACV) in March 2013, with the parish council renewing its status in April 2021.
Community Investment & Purchase
-
August 2024: Our initial community share offer raised approximately £243,000—prompting an extension of the appeal to cover refurbishment costs.
-
June 2024: AHCHL completed the purchase of the Golden Lion.
-
A £360,000 grant from the UK Community Ownership Fund (Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities) was secured in 2024.
Refurbishment & Progress
-
From late 2024 through spring 2025, a full-scale renovation took place—restructuring, re-insulating, replastering, rewiring, plumbing, stone and oak flooring restoration, kitchen and first-floor refit, pedestrian access redesign, and solar panel installation.
-
A hidden cellar was discovered in March 2025 during floor removal, requiring additional structural reinforcement.
-
The community share fund also addressed a final funding gap to complete the kitchen, fire doors, lighting, and furnishings required for reopening.
Securing the Future
-
April 2025: Lance Warburton—an experienced publican—was announced as the new tenant, ensuring professional operation and long-term sustainability.
-
The Parish Council and village groups retained access to community facilities within the pub under the tenancy agreement.
For more details please read our Business Plan and Share Prospectus.