THE OAKBANK Inn community buyout is ‘tantalisingly’ close to completion and campaigners in Sandbank are gearing up to gain ownership of their local pub.
Since being awarded £147,411 by the Scottish Land Fund late last year, the Oakbank Community Inn Sandbank, (OCIS), group has been working tirelessly to promote a share scheme in order to fund renovation work to the 150-year-old landmark that’s been closed for over two years.
“We are almost there,” explained Sue McKillop of OCIS. “We will be taking full, legal ownership of the venue in mid April. Once we have the keys we will set to work on vital improvements.
“Community support in the share scheme has been very encouraging but we still need more shareholders to get us over the line. Our share offer has been extended and every share bought will be gratefully received. The money raised will be used to carry out essential repairs, employ staff and stock the bar and kitchen.”
Sue added: “Each and every £25 share purchased will represent an investment in something very special and a positive addition to the landscape of Sandbank and surrounding areas. The Oakbank will be owned and run by the community with the committee working on your behalf. Without financial support we cannot move the project forward and get the Oakbank open again for all to enjoy. “Every penny of profit generated by the pub, once opened, will go back into the business. Aside of staffing and a development worker, no individual will benefit financially in any way.
“We just want our once thriving pub back at the beating heart of the Sandbank community and have ambitious and exciting plans to attract local people and visitors to the area. This is a venue that really is at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands and it will be fantastic to see the good times rolling once again.”
OCIS is hosting two forthcoming events at the Oakbank. A celebration evening will take place on Friday, April 18, with all welcome to celebrate the community finally taking ownership of this great venue. There will also be an event targeted at local businesses and companies scheduled for Thursday, May 1.
Sue said: “The events we’ve had so far have been very positive with lots of folk from Sandbank and further afield popping by to find out more.
“We hope to get as many local business owners down for what could be the start of a new networking venture and it will be fantastic to breathe new life into the Oakbank with a social night to celebrate handover. It will of course be BYOB for both events!” concluded Sue.
For more information visit www.oakbank.pub/share- offer
