Update on plans to run Royal Oak at Cromhall as community pub

The Royal Oak in Cromhall, which has been closed since 2023, was the centre of a campaign by residents to buy and run it as a community hub.

The Own Our Oak committee managed to gather more than £80,000 worth of pledges within six weeks.

However, the campaign has been informed by the current owner that a ‘better’ offer has been received from another party.

Ideas for the pub if run as a community pub included opening a opening a café, having accommodation, and a shop.

It is understood the site was on the market for £395,000.

In an update, a spokesperson from the Own Our Oak committee said: "The current owner has informed us that they have an offer from another party that exceeds what we as a community were able to offer. 

"Their expectation is that they will sell to this other party.

"Assuming this all goes through this means the Own Our Oak will not need to be involved further. 

"However if that sale is not successful we may get another chance later.

"At this point the committee has no further information on the potential buyer and their plans for the Royal Oak, so cannot answer any questions you might have.

"So, as long as the new buyer intends to keep the Royal Oak as a pub, this will be good news for everyone.

"Thanks for your support."

The site was officially listed as an asset of community value by South Gloucestershire Council in November 2023.