Community Spirit Revives Oakbank Inn in Sandbank, Argyll

In early 2023, a group of locals in Sandbank, Argyll, formed a committee to purchase the Oakbank Inn, a community pub that had fallen into disrepair. Chaired by Sue McKillop, the committee faced significant challenges, with founding member Ian MacNaughton describing the effort as an "uphill struggle." After an initial rejection, their persistence paid off in December 2023 when they secured a Scottish Land grant of nearly £150,000, which covered most of the purchase price. By January 2024, McKillop had successfully raised over £23,000 through community shares, despite not reaching the £90,000 target. By April, the keys to the Oakbank were in their hands, marking the beginning of a busy refurbishment period leading up to the pub's opening night.

The Guardian

During the refurbishment, the Oakbank Inn hosted various pop-up events, workshops, and charity mornings, aiming to become a community hub rather than just a traditional pub. Development officer Dawn Petherick emphasized the importance of addressing social isolation, stating that the pub would cater to diverse community interests, including knitting groups and book clubs. The need for such a space is underscored by the impending closure of another local pub, the Strone Inn, highlighting the challenges faced by local businesses.

The Guardian

As the Oakbank Inn prepares for its future, both McKillop and local business owner Stephen Mitchell acknowledge the difficulties that lie ahead. Mitchell noted that while the reopening is a significant achievement, the real work begins now, as maintaining a successful pub in the current economic climate is challenging. McKillop echoed these sentiments, expressing excitement mixed with apprehension about the future.

The Guardian

The Oakbank's reopening is supported by Plunkett UK, a charity that advocates for community-owned businesses. Chief Executive James Alcock highlighted the resilience of community pubs, noting a five-year survival rate of 98%. Alcock expressed delight at the Oakbank's opening, emphasizing the role of community-owned assets in preserving vital services and reducing social isolation.

The Guardian

Looking ahead, the Oakbank Inn has ambitious plans for further development, including refurbishing upstairs accommodation and creating a studio/gallery space. The pub's location opposite a community-owned garden will allow for the integration of locally grown vegetables into its kitchen. Additionally, plans to rebuild a deck and create a bridge to the nearby Holy Loch marina aim to enhance accessibility for boat owners, further integrating the pub into the local community.

The Guardian

• “It’s been an uphill struggle,” — Ian MacNaughton, Founding Committee Member

The Guardian

• “Whatever the community wants – knitting groups, book clubs, exhibitions, ‘sober nights’ – it should be a hub more than a pub,” — Dawn Petherick, Development Officer

The Guardian

• “We are under no illusions as to the challenges that lie ahead.” — Sue McKillop, Chair of the Committee

The Guardian

• “We see time and again how saving local assets like village pubs protects vital services and social spaces, helping to reduce isolation and strengthen communities.” — James Alcock, Chief Executive, Plunkett UK

The Guardian

The Oakbank Inn's reopening represents a significant community effort to revitalize local social spaces, reflecting the resilience and determination of Sandbank's residents.

The Guardian