Residents in Kenley are celebrating a 'huge win' after Croydon Council granted Asset of Community Value (ACV) status to a historic Victorian pub that has been boarded up for almost a year.
The decision marks a significant step towards reopening the Kenley Hotel under local ownership, though it does not totally fend off the threat of development.
Celebrating the decision, campaign leader for the Kenley and District Residents Association (KENDRA), Fareita Udoh, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): 'This is a huge win for Kenley — and it's only the beginning.'
The Kenley Hotel has been a fixture in the heart of Kenley, on Godstone Road, for at least 150 years. Yet the prominent corner building, dating back to 1886, has stood boarded up since August last year, leaving residents without a local pub.
Members of KENDRA say the new ACV listing recognises the building's importance as a social asset while giving them the right to bid for it if it is put up for sale by freeholders Star Pubs — the pub property arm of Heineken. The pub's ACV status, granted by the council on May 26, lasts for five years, after which it can be renewed.
ACV status means that if an asset is put up for sale, community groups have a time limit within which to come up with their own bid, though there is no obligation for the owner to sell to them. It does, however, stop a quick sale and allow time to raise funds and draw up plans.
With ACV status secured, KENDRA is now moving to establish a Community Benefit Society (CBS). This would create a not-for-profit organisation, allowing local people to become members and co-owners of the project.
Members of the group say this will provide a transparent framework for ownership while ensuring decisions are made for the benefit of Kenley residents. Speaking to the LDRS last month about what could replace the pub, Fareita said: 'Upstairs we could have podcasting studios, co-working spaces and places for wraparound care because there are three local schools that are struggling with facilities.'
She added: 'The Kenley Hotel isn't just a building. It's a landmark woven into our local identity — a place where generations have gathered, celebrated and connected. ACV status gives us the chance to step forward and take control of our own future.'
Once the CBS has been registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, KENDRA plans to launch a Community Share Offer. This will allow residents to invest in the future of the Kenley Hotel through community shares.
'The CBS and share offer will give every resident the opportunity to be part of something historic,' Fareita said.
KENDRA also plans to hold a series of public meetings to explain how the CBS will operate and how residents can get involved. People will be invited to join working groups covering finance, governance, fundraising and community engagement as preparations continue.
The group said should Star Pubs decide to sell the building, 'the community will be ready'.
