An Action group is making plans for Greatham with support growing from residents, local firms and politicians for a village hub, café and shop.

Members of the Greatham Hub Action Group are putting together a business plan with hopes high their vision will be revealed to villagers in early 2026.

Although they’re helped by a Plunkett advisor, putting the “comprehensive” plan together has not been easy as it’s time consuming while its members are all part-time volunteers.

It must demonstrate the vision for the café and shop, along with key considerations such as services offered, financial viability and sustainable income streams.

But the GHAG has been given a hand as the firms behind the Apple Pie and Liss Forest Nursery developments have pledged support along with Greg Stafford MP.

“The business plan has to be a really good one that covers all bases and addresses potential objections,” said GHAG member, Sue Godby.

“We have also been awarded some seed funding through councillor grants from EHDC and HCC we applied for to help with feasibility and start-up costs, which is great.”

Richard Barwick, director of Cove Construction Ltd, and the village’s new vicar, Rev Richard Wharton, recently met the action group while Mr Stafford has promised to follow developments closely after learning about the GHAG’s plans in The Greatham Inn.

He said: “The project is community-led, with a business plan in development, and aims to create a shared space for local activities and events.

“It’s always encouraging to see residents taking the initiative and thinking about how to strengthen rural life and bring people together – I appreciated the chance to listen to their ideas.”

A site meeting with village hall trustees to explore possible locations is in the pipeline while local firm, Caboodle Design, gave up their time to develop the group‘s website.