Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb, has welcomed the UK Government’s decision to give the ‘green light’ to two bids from Pembrokeshire for the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund which will boost the rural communities of Crymych and Hayscastle Cross.
The UK Government has today announced that two projects from Pembrokeshire have secured, £454,250 of Community Ownership funding.
The successful bids from Preseli Pembrokeshire have come from Y Cross Caslai Community Benefit Society Ltd and the CPD Crymych Cyf, and had been backed by the local MP, Stephen Crabb on submission.
The money will now enable CPD Crymych Cyf (Crymych Football Club Ltd.) based in the village of Crymych, to develop sporting and wellbeing activities in the area and to secure and safeguard the future of Tafarn Crymych Arms in Crymych.
Y Cross Caslai Community Benefit Society Ltd based in the village of Hayscastle Cross is the other bid that has given the ‘go ahead’ to purchase the local public house, Y Cross, to ensure that this this vital community amenity remains open.
Commenting on the UK Government announcement, Stephen Crabb MP stated,
“I am delighted that, not just one, but two Pembrokeshire bids have been successful in this round of the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund. These projects will protect the pubs in Crymych and Hayscastle Cross, and ensure they become important community hubs for future generations.”
“It’s been a pleasure to work with the committees and local volunteers behind these bids over the last few months. There is no doubt that teamwork has got these bids over the finish line.”
“We have already had success in the past with the funding for Haver Hub in Haverfordwest and Havards Store in Newport so it’s fantastic to see a further boost from UK Government direct into our community.”
The £150m Community Ownership Fund helps communities across the UK to take ownership of assets at risk of closure. The Community Ownership Fund helps to ensure that important parts of the social fabric, such as pubs, sports clubs, theatres and post office buildings can continue to play a central role in towns and villages across the UK. It has already awarded £23.9 million to 98 projects across the UK including Haver Hub in Haverfordwest and Havards Store in Newport.
Secretary David TC Davies said:
“I’m delighted to see community projects in Wales attracting about 11% of the total amount available from the Community Ownership Fund in this current round.
“That means that more valuable assets in Wales are being saved for future generations. In many rural areas the pub is the lifeblood of the village, creating jobs and boosting the local economy, as well as providing locals with a place to socialise and come together. Congratulations to all the successful projects.”
