Colney Heath pub hit by lorry is listed as community asset

A village pub damaged after a lorry crashed into it has been listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

A flat-bed truck struck the Crooked Billet pub on High Street, Colney Heath, Hertfordshire, in the early hours of 31 October.

St Albans City and District Council added it to its ACV list after an application by the Colney Heath Residents' Association.

It means it cannot be sold without the community having a chance to buy it.

The council said it decided the pub met the legal criteria of furthering the social wellbeing and interests of the surrounding community.

It provided a meeting place for village residents and was also a focal point for activities including a summer party that was held earlier this year, the council said.

Under the Localism Act 2011, ACV status places some responsibilities on the owner should they decide to sell.

The custodian must allow a period of six weeks after announcing a sale for a community interest group to decide if it wants to make a bid.

If there is such a request, the owner must then allow the group a six-month period to raise funds.

The Crooked Billet is a Grade II listed building and is being repaired.

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