In 2013, The Antwerp Arms faced the threat of being converted into flats. Fearing the loss of such an important and historic community asset, local residents took action and started a campaign to save The Annie.

We formed The Antwerp Arms Association (AAA) in December 2013 and raised funds through a share offer. With the addition of grant funding from the the Social Investment Bank, we were able to buy the pub from the developer to stop it being turned into flats, and in March 2015 the Annie re-opened as North London’s first Community-owned pub.

Our efforts to save the pub received significant local and national media coverage, which helped to raise awareness and generate support from the community. We also launched a social media campaign to promote the share offer and encourage people to become shareholders. In addition, the New Tottenham Singers created a wonderful promotional video to help spread the word about the Association's efforts and the importance of preserving the pub - watch below!

Watch the campaign video:

Timeline: Saving The Annie:

Jan 2013: Antwerp Arms put up for sale by Enterprise Inns.

July 2013: Residents call a public meeting to save and bid for the Antwerp Arms.

Sept 2013: Asset of Community Value (ACV) awarded after the Bruce Castle Village Association (BCVA) applied for the pub to be listed under the Localism Act 2011.

Oct 2013: The pub was purchased by a developer, then re-listed for sale.

Dec 2013: Antwerp Arms Association (AAA) was formed to express interest in purchase.

Jan 2014: SIB grants funds to establish a Cooperative.

Mar 2014: Launch of Share Issue at Camden Beer Festival.

June 2014: AAA bids for SIB capital grant.

Oct 2014: AAA awarded £285,000 by SIB.

Nov 2014: Developer accepts AAA's offer.

Jan 2015: Pledges drawn down.

Mar 2015: Contracts exchanged and purchase completed.

Apr 2015: Official move-in.

Following the 2016 AGM's decision to expand the building, the AAA successfully applied for grants from Power to Change. This funding, totaling £107,000, supported both the extension and the appointment of a Community Engagement Coordinator. Local involvement was a priority, with D&G Builders, a local company, chosen for the construction work. The renovation, managed by a skilled member of our committee, was completed in December 2017, with valuable contributions from shareholders in interior design.

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the pub to close temporarily. During this challenging period, our volunteers prepared and delivered over 1000 hot meals to residents in need. The pub reopened in July 2020, adhering to stringent safety measures.

Today, The Antwerp Arms stands proudly as a vibrant community pub. It offers an extensive selection of real ales, craft beers, and ciders, catering to diverse tastes. This transformation from a local pub on the brink of demolition to a thriving community hub exemplifies the power of collective effort.