What is the aim of the Hull Community Pub Society?

We are a group of Hull-based pub enthusiasts who are keen on preserving Hull’s traditional pubs. We want to open Hull’s first community-owned, community-ran pub. Owned by the people and operated for the benefit of the people, not to make profits for landlords or pub companies.  

What is the legal structure of the Hull Community Pub Society?

We began as an informal group of former regulars, we created a not for profit limited liability company in 2023 for sake of expediency as we had to move quickly. We soon realised that the best structure for a non-profit organisation was to become a Community Benefit Society (CBS) so in late 2023 we began the legal process to convert the existing company (Hull Community Pub Ltd) into a Community Benefit Society.  The Society is called The Hull Community Pub Society Ltd.  In February 2024 we will be doing a share issue so that anyone who wants to be a part-owner of the pub will be able to Buy shares and join the Society.

The Society will be run on co-operative principles and that means that however many shares you own you only get one vote.   In some cases, for the sake of affordability, we will let people club together to buy a share. If two people own one joint share they only get one vote between them.

Why The New Clarence?

The New Clarence is the only pub in Hull that has been designated as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) by the Council.  the pub has a combination of facilities that are not available in other pubs in the area.  The pub is full accessible, has a kitchen and a beer garden and a spacious function room which is in need of renovation. 

How did you afford to buy the pub?

We were successful in bidding for the government's Community Ownership Fund which was established to help communities purchase land and buildings that are at risk of being lost from communities use.

How are the renovations being funded?

The funds to renovate the pub will be raised via a community share offer, grants and donations.

How much money are you aiming to raise?

We estimate that we need to raise c.£250k more to renovate the function room, install a lift and an accessible toilet upstairs.

How do I buy shares?

Shares are still available.  If you would like to become a member of the Society and part owner of The New Clarence email us to ask for more infomation on shares@hullcommunitypub.com

Who will own and make decisions about the pub?

Anyone who purchases shares (regardless of the amount of shares) will have a vote. One member = one vote. The shareholders appointed a committee with 9 members to oversee the renovation and reopening of the pub. The pub is run by a full time paid pub manager and there will be paid staff.

Is there a business plan for the pub?

Yes. A detailed business plan has been created. This is an essential element of any grant application and share issue. The business plan can be downloaded here

Will the pub still do food?

Yes. 

How can I get involved?

Don’t be shy about reaching out.   We are a co-operative and we can use all the help we can get. Whether you want to be involved in the fundraising, the renovation of the pub, or running the pub, all help is most welcome. Get in touch with us via the contact form and one of the team will get back to you.   If you just want to see how we are getting on you can follow us on Facebook