A Colney Heath pub that was hit by a truck in October has been listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

Following an application by the Colney Heath Residents' Association, St Albans City and District Council has added The Crooked Billet to its ACV list.

According to the local authority, the pub met the legal criteria of furthering the social wellbeing and interests of the surrounding community.

The pub provides a meeting place for Colney Heath residents and a "focal point" for activities.

The Grade II listed building was hit by a flat-bed truck in October, and is currently being repaired.

The Crooked Billet's listing means that if the pub's owner is to sell, they must allow a period of six weeks for a community interest group to decide if they wish to make a bid.

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If such a group decides to bid, the owner must then allow the group a six-month period to raise funds for an offer.

The owner can continue to market the property during this time but cannot exchange contracts or enter into a binding agreement to do so unless it is with the community interest group.

At the end of the six months, the owner is free to sell to whomever they choose.