THE Oakbank Community Inn in Sandbank, is preparing to open its doors next month for the first time in almost three years, marking a major milestone for one of Scotland’s newest community-owned pubs.
Dating back to the 1860s, the Oakbank has long been a focal point in village life. Earlier this year it was bought for the community thanks to a substantial grant from the Scottish Land Fund, securing its future as a locally owned asset at a time when the local area has been rocked by the news that eight Argyll Holidays parks have gone into administration.
After months of graft from the committee and a dedicated team of volunteers – including a full redesign of the bar – an opening date of Saturday, December 20 from 5pm has been set. A busy programme of events is already lined up, with quiz nights, live music, comedy and open mic sessions planned in the first few months.
Sue McKillop, from Oakbank Community Inn Sandbank (OCIS), said the support so far had been “very inspiring”.
She added: ““While the work has been going on, we’ve organised car boot sales, hosted a regular pop-up greengrocer, and provided a venue for health workshops and charity coffee mornings.”
“There have also been some very successful quiz nights and other BYOB events that have been well supported by people from Sandbank and beyond. The level of interest in the pub has been very inspiring, as demonstrated by our recent annual members’ meeting that attracted an impressive number of shareholders and local residents.”
Sue added that the team is “excited – but just a wee bit scared” as they move towards full opening in time for Christmas. The pub will also open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Hogmanay, with hours published on social media.
Sue explained: “There have been so many hurdÍles to jump over and it’s been a big learning curve for us all. Like any pub venue, we will need to keep innovating in order to survive. Many community-owned pubs fall by the wayside and we’re determined that that won’t be the case with the Oakbank.
“Our aim has always been to be a vibrant resource for the entire Sandbank community as well as for people and groups from further afield… We will have to keep listening to the community and the 200 or so shareholders as well as our key funders whose investment and support has made this project a reality.”
Development officer Dawn Petherick said feedback from a recent questionnaire to shareholders and followers had given the team “great ideas” to help make the Oakbank a destination for locals and visitors alike.
Volunteers and local firms have already contributed hundreds of hours to tidying and upgrading the building and grounds.
Looking ahead, the committee plans to offer food and accommodation, create a permanent display on the ‘American Years’ of the Holy Loch, and potentially provide gallery space for Cowal Open Studios artists.
“We’ve achieved a lot over the past few months but there is so much more still to do,” Sue said. “We want to take everyone in Sandbank and the surrounding areas with us on this journey. Watch this space!”
For updates and contact details, search Oakbank Community Inn Sandbank on Facebook or email [email protected]
