The next stage of a campaign to save a treasured pub on Portland is underway as the process to raise 'substantial funds' begins. 

The Pulpit Inn at Portland Bill could be saved from demolition thanks to a project put together by local groups Island Community Action, arts festival b-side and the Portland Association. 

As reported, a scheme was approved last year for the site to be demolished, paving the way for 11 holiday lets and a revamped bar-restaurant.

However, as the pub was recognised as an Asset of Community Value in July 2022, the community has an opportunity to buy the building.

READ: Bid to save Pulpit Inn on Portland from demolition

This led to the the three Portland-based groups to develop a business plan that would see the building saved from demolition and turned into a wildlife centre and pub. 

It comes after a survey of residents on the island gave the groups 'a firm mandate' to take their proposals forward to the next stage. 

These will now be discussed at an open meeting at Easton Methodist Church this evening at 7pm where fundraising will be discussed as well as a detailed outline of the groups' plans based on the survey results.

Pulpit Inn on Portland Bill Pulpit Inn on Portland Bill (Image: Trevor Bevins)

Amanda Wallwork, co-artistic director at b-side said: "This meeting is an update for the local community. 

"From the survey we carried out, we have a firm mandate to work on our vision.

"We have been developing a business plan for the property and we are very excited about we can put together.

READ: Pulpit Inn redevelopment approved with pub to be demolished

"We are now in the process of raising funds as the developer can only sell to a community group, until November 22, when it will go on the market.

"But we are working on a positive basis that we will put in an offer before then.

"We have met with the developer who is taking it seriously and we are progressing with everything we can."

The hope is to refurbish the building and possibly extend it over several phases. The pub will be retained, but the plan is to also create a space which can help protect the local landscape and serve as an educational hotspot for visitors and schools. 

With development proposals such as the incinerator having a negative impact in the island, the idea is to create something that will 'celebrate Portland'.

Amanda added: "For Portland, it comes as lots of people are fighting against the incinerator, so it will be a challenge for people to help.

"But because Portland faces this difficult development, we hope this can offer something positive and if there can be positive investment, that will only be a good thing - it's about celebrating Portland."