Rockfield shares drive tops £150,000

Investment in The Rockfield Centre now stands at more than £150,000.

With the deadline extended by popular request, Oban Communities Trust hopes those who have not yet bought their community shares will do so now.

When the building is refurbished names will be inscribed in the building as a legacy for the future.

Gordon McNab, chairman of Oban Communities Trust, reiterated that all combinations of contribution would work.

‘Some people are saying the minimum £250 is beyond their budget. But by grouping together with your friends, colleagues or families you can quickly reach the minimum share price. We have had lots of folk doing this already and all really simply.

‘Nominate one name for the share and list everyone else on the back of the form. Every contribution we receive means one less pound we need to find to fill the funding gap and one day closer to getting the doors open.’

Caroline Boswell, who heads up community shares for the trust, has put up a new banner at the entrance to The Rockfield Centre.

She said: ‘Banksy, I ain’t, but I was out with the spray paints making a new sign to remind everyone that the share offer ends on August 23. So you’ve still got time to join the crowd and invest in the future of The Rockfield Centre. Let’s make something great happen in the heart of Oban.’

The Rockfield Centre will have something for everyone – a drop-in community and cultural hub for all ages which will be a great boon for locals and visitors. Not only will there be the chance to take part in a wide range of activities, there will be exhibitions and performances across all the arts including music, drama and dance, as well as community well-being, the chance to learn new skills, enjoy the interactive play museum and celebrate the heritage of Oban and its surrounding area.

‘In addition, it will be a place for small businesses to co-work and be a centre of excellence all round.’

Caroline added: ‘Most importantly, The Rockfield Centre will be a place for all the family and a hub for the community. So join together and be part of something really special. The fact the community has already given more than £150,000 points up the importance of this community project.

‘We now need the help of businesses and accommodation providers to keep the amount climbing towards our target.

‘By providing a destination to keep visitors in the town longer, all businesses will benefit massively from The Rockfield Centre.’

To buy community shares, call in to the office by The Rockfield Centre Community Charity Shop between 11am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, or visit the website www.therockfieldcentre.org /invest.

Meanwhile, tours of the main building and the chance to see the plans are on view in the centre.

For more information visit the centre’s Facebook page or telephone 07483 308142.