6th January 2026

Happy New Year 2026 - A No 44 Update for Members and Stakeholders

As we welcome 2026, the Management Team at Woodstock Community Benefit Society (No 44) would like to share a short update on where things stand and the progress made in recent months.

As many of you will know, the former social club closed in August 2024 after a sustained period of financial losses. It became clear that change was needed to secure the long-term future of the building and ensure it could once again serve the community in a sustainable way. Since then, we’ve been working steadily behind the scenes to explore the right options for No 44 and to put foundations in place for what comes next.

January 2026 updates

We’re pleased to share positive developments from the start of this year:

• Funding secured

We have received an £8,000 grant from the Co-op Booster Fund, providing valuable support for the project to contribute towards the project to assist with our planning and engagement work.

• Support and guidance

We are also receiving ongoing support from the Plunkett Foundation, with further advice and assistance expected as the project develops.

• Transparency and meetings

Minutes from the 2025 AGM have now been shared and are available online, alongside other key documents, at www.num44.com

• Other recent Important Documents of the Community Benefit Society (CBS) progress, along with Q&As, are also available to view, ensuring stakeholders can stay informed and engaged.

• Future management model

We are currently in discussions with several potential new tenants, with the intention of selecting one to take on the space, subject to agreed criteria that align with No 44’s community values and vision.

Looking ahead

While the building remains closed, real progress is being made. Our focus in the first quarter is on careful decision-making, ensuring that any future tenant, structure and use of the space supports financial sustainability, the community and the long-term future of No 44. And getting structural and operational works carried out.

We’d like to thank everyone for their patience and encouragement as we move through this next phase.

Further updates will be shared as plans develop and share online at https://www.num44.com

With thanks,

The Management Team

Woodstock Community Benefit Society (No 44)