Controversial work on boozer underway
£320,000 revamp
A controversial revamp of a popular pub is now underway.
Work started last week on a £320,000 refurbishment of the Old Oak on Calderwood Road.
Plans to change the pub by owners Star Pubs & Bars sparked a host of complaints from locals, and kick-started an online petition against the proposals.
However the refurbishment has now started, with the pub’s new look set to be unveiled in December.
David Milligan, one of the operators behind the pub, has claimed that complaints that the pub would become a generic chain eatery are off the mark.
He said : “We’re not a managed pub chain. We don’t believe one size fits all. Our pubs are all unique and focused on the different needs of their customers. What they share in common is high levels of customer service.
“We really liked The Old Oak when we saw it but, realising there wasn’t another pub within half a mile, felt more could be done to ensure it met the needs of the broader community on its doorstep.
“We’re very keen that The Old Oak is the beating heart of the area and want to hold charity fundraisers as well as having space to host anniversaries, christenings and birthday celebrations and funerals. We would be delighted for local community groups, societies and charities to use the pub for their get-togethers.”
Earlier this year locals had told the Reformer of their concerns about the changes.
Louise Reid said: “There’s so many community things going on there. What will happen there? It feels like this will take it away from the community, and really rip the heart out of the area.”
The three darts teams who used the Old Oak also had to find new premises, which was called a “huge shame” by members.