Whatpub.com, CAMRA’s online pubs database, launches in September to the general public according to the latest timeline.

As discussed elsewhere, it’s only as good as the local branches. So in Reading () there is 100% coverage with pictures and most basic data on display whereas in large swathes of Wales there is, basically, bugger all. It’s a live and dynamic site that accepts suggested updates though again, these must be actioned by the local branch. How many of them remain engaged with the project beyond getting their data ready for launch is unclear.

There was a lot of talk about having comments (“CAMRA’s beerintheevening” as was said at the time) but that seems to have gone rather quiet and I’m wondering whether they’ve decided that it simply isn’t worth the effort (who will moderate it?); best just get the basic pub details listed and let the punters choose via the (sometimes wonderfully opaque-yet-loaded description). I guess we’ll find out in due course.