Wiltshire community completes purchase of the Ivy pub

The Friends of the Ivy group in Heddington has bought the Grade II-listed Ivy Inn after raising £436,000, and aims to reopen by Christmas while seeking further funds for renovations.

The Friends of the Ivy community group has bought the Grade II listed Ivy Inn in Heddington near Calne, Wiltshire, after more than a year of negotiations. The 17th-century pub closed in May 2024 and was designated an asset of community value by locals. The group raised £436,000 toward a minimum £350,000 purchase target but says additional funds are needed for renovations. It plans to host community events and offer food and drink, and aims to reopen by Christmas, subject to funding and any necessary planning approvals. Key details: - The purchase was completed by the Friends of the Ivy following over a year of negotiations. - The Ivy Inn is a Grade II listed 17th-century building that closed in May 2024 and was designated an asset of community value. - The group raised £436,000, above their initial minimum target, but additional funding is required for renovation work. - Plans include community events, food and drink sales, and the involvement of around 70 volunteer workers. - The chairman described the group’s approach as "community first, pub second" and noted the building’s long history dating back to around 1600. - Planned administrative actions include applying for grant funding and obtaining any necessary planning approvals. Summary: The purchase returns the historic Ivy Inn to community ownership and preserves a local amenity close to long-distance trails. The group must secure further funding and planning approvals before reopening; administrative matters include applying for grants and organising volunteer staff.