Pub is the Hub to roll out nationally

The Pub is the Hub scheme will now be available on a national scale in both rural and urban areas, following the promise of a £1m grant from Government.

Pubs minister John Healey promised the cash grant to Pub is the Hub to enable it to employ seven full-time advisors across the country.

Previously, the sceheme, which helps pubs diversify into other areas such as adding a shop or post office, has only been available in rural areas where grants are available from local authorities or development agencies.

"This is good news because we have always felt there are so many licensees out there needing support," said Pub is the Hub director John Longden. "We have tried and tried in the past but I think it is wonderful that at last we have a pubs minister who actually appreciates the role of the pub.

"Pubs need special care and attention. A good licensee is a local hero and they need support."

Pub is the Hub will also work with the Plunkett Foundation to run a three-year pilot programme of 50 community owned pubs, with the help of a £3.3m grant.

"Our role will be to advise on if the pub is viable and if other services, such as a library, can be bolted on. The Plunkett Foundation will help with the infrasturcture of setting up and running a co-operative."

No date has yet been set for when the grant will be made available. "We need to hammer out some details," said Longden. "But it has got to be good news for pubs ."