Case Study: Cumberland Arms – a master lesson in making the most from a £1000 grant
Business overview
The Cumberland Arms is a much-loved independent pub overlooking Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, and known for its strong community spirit, live music, and relaxed atmosphere. The team was already taking practical steps to reduce waste and run a more sustainable pub and saw the Green Street grant as a chance to go even further, making every pound count.
The challenge
Operating from a characterful but draughty heritage building meant higher energy bills to keep the space warm. The team wanted to cut energy use, reduce costs, and make the pub more comfortable both for the team and customers. They were also keen to do more to tackle food waste. They also wanted to make the most of their large outdoor space which was already full of their beer garden benches, upcycled from old beer kegs, and showing their creative approach to reuse. They wanted to build on these areas by composting food waste and rewilding part of the garden.
What they did
With just £882 of funding, the Cumberland Arms showed how much can be achieved with practical, low-cost changes. The grant was used to:
- Switch remaining old lightbulbs for energy-saving LEDs.
- Insulate pipes and the hot water tank.
- Add loft insulation to reduce heat loss.
- Draught-proof doors and windows to improve comfort.
- Set up a simple composting system for food waste.
- Buy seeds and tools to rewild the beer garden with pollinator-friendly plants, and so, by growing wildflowers and composting food waste, create a closed loop.
- Let customers know about the changes, so they could get behind what the pub was doing.
The impact
- Lower energy bills from improved heating and lighting efficiency.
- A warmer, more comfortable space for staff and customers.
- A greener, more inviting outdoor area that customers notice and enjoy.
- Visible environmental action through composting, rewilding, and clear signage.
- Positive press and radio coverage with Green Street helping to promote its story across the region by featuring it in a press release.
- Ongoing sustainable choices, including continued use of refillable cleaning products trialled through the programme.
- In addition the Cumberland Arms has details of a solar provider and details of BEST funding so that it can look into solar as an option.
What other businesses can learn
The Cumberland Arms proves that you don’t need a big budget to make real change. By focusing on simple and visible improvements, it has cut costs, created a better space for customers, and helped the planet too. Start with what you already have, take manageable steps, and share your journey as many customers really do care.
