PLANS to revive a Teignbridge village pub have taken a major step forward.

The Kenton Pub and Community Group has announced the sale of the Dolphin pub has been agreed.

Full details will be revealed at a community meeting being held on December 13 at Kenton Victory Hall.

The sale signals a new future for the Fore Street pub which closed six years ago and has remained in a derelict state for some years.

The community group of committed villagers was formed with the aim of transforming the building into an inclusive and sustainable space to operate as a pub and community hub.

Set up as a not-for-profit Community Benefit Society, the group believes the pub is a ‘vital asset’ to Kenton to contribute to the village’s social fabric, cultural life and local economy.

By owning the property, the aim is to transform it by celebrating its historic character while also serving the needs of today’s Kenton residents and visitors.

The fundraising goal is an estimated £400,000 to cover all costs and contingencies, including the purchase.

According to the society’s business plan, the pub was last sold in 2019 for £220,000.

But since then, it has been left empty, flooded twice, and been damaged by trespassers and as a result, significant restoration work is needed.

Before the sale was agreed, the community group said the asking price had been understood to be £250,000.

But initial surveys carried out on behalf of the group suggested a value nearer to £200,000 with estimated restoration costs of £80,000.

Initial opening and running costs are estimated to be approximately £75,000 for the first year.

Costs will be met through a community share option scheme which was launched earlier this year, loads and grants.

Originally owned by the Powderham Estate, The Dolphin Inn was rebuilt in its present position in the late 1860s, following the ‘Great Fire of Kenton’ in 1856.

After well over 100 years of trading, it closed in 2019 and was put up for auction.

Kenton Parish Council successfully applied for the pub to become a Registered Asset of Community Value.

Having suffered two floods, neglect, and trespasser damage, the building had become an eyesore and was in danger of declining beyond repair.

The group says: ‘We believe a pub is more than just a building; it’s the heart of the community.

‘A committed team of volunteers has banded together to form a registered community benefit society with a mission to purchase and restore our cherished pub.

‘We invite you to become part of our journey - your support can help us create a warm, welcoming space that truly belongs to all of us.

‘This is about more than saving a pub.

‘It’s about protecting our village spirit, creating a space for all ages, and ensuring Kenton continues to thrive for generations to come.’

Organisers are in talks with other venues which have successfully established community pubs including The Drewe Arms, Drewsteignton, and the Tally Ho! in Littlehempston.

They are also using being supported by the national Plunkett Foundation, a charity which helps people in rural areas to set up and run businesses in community ownership and has helped with development of the

business plan and share offer.