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Frequently Asked Questions


1. Who are NACBS?

You can find out more in the ‘About Us’ section

2. Where can I find more information about Lochranza Country Inn?

Please head to lcilochranza.co.uk for information about the Lochranza Country Inn.

 

3. What projects are you working on?

The Lochranza Country Inn is an ongoing project. The NACBS has to ensure that

  • The assets are in good condition and meet the legal requirements for safety
  • That the assets are insured
  • That the management of the Inn business is producing a viable and sustainable business
  • That plans for the future development of the Inn are agreed and funded

The current project is the investigation into providing Affordable Housing. This has just started and is likely to take 5 years

Because some of our expertise e.g grant applications and project management, we also provide support for other groups in the North Arran Community on request.

Future projects are suggested and agreed by the members. Our last survey to find out what they wanted was done in 2022. We will be conducting another survey to update our understanding in 2025 the results of which will provided to the members at the AGM.

 

4. What is the long-term plan for LCI?

The Lochranza Country Inn belongs to the Community through the NACBS. All surplus profits made by the Inn are donated back to the NACBS for investment in this or other community projects. The long-term plan is for the community to retain the Inn as a social hub in perpetuity.

The Lochranza Country Inn Board may submit shorter term ideas and plans for the Inn but these must be agreed by the NACBS and its members. Any that do not fit with the long-term goal of the NACBS would not be acceptable.

 

 

 

5. How can I help?

There are several ways you can help.

  • Volunteering at the Inn: there are several opportunities to help. The Inn often requires volunteers to help maintaining the fabric of the Inn, helping in the garden, or supporting the bar or kitchen staff during unexpected peak periods. These opportunities can be fun and will be announced either on social media or in Northend News
  • Joining an NACBS project team: Why not check out our current projects. If you feel that you have skills to help us with any of our projects please get in touch with the secretary. The work only takes a few hours a week unless you wish to do more.
  • Becoming a member: If you live within the North Arran area and are on the electoral register for its postcodes then by completing the simple form on this website and buying a Community Member Share for £1 you can become a Community Member. The more members we have the more we understand the needs of everyone in the community and being a member not only means
    1. you can raise and vote on the issues
    2. you can stand or nominate and elect the Boards Community Directors
  • Going to the Inn, meeting friends, having a drink or a meal. Not only will you be supporting the community but you may also enjoy yourself!
  • Making a donation. We are always grateful for any donations to help the community. If you wish to do so please contact the Secretary.
7. Who are the Lochranza Country Inn board?
The LCI Board has a minimum of 5 Directors all who are volunteers with the exception of the General Manager of the Inn who may be appointed by the rest of the Board.
While most positions are elected at the NACBS AGM, two positions (one is nominated by the NACBS as its representative on the Board, and the Director of Finance is co-opted because of the necessary skills required for the position.
The current members are dates of next election are:
  • Chris Traill Chair 2025
  • Gavin Pritchard Secretary 2026
  • Fiona Henderson 2025
  • Robin Finlayson Finance
  • Andrew Rigby NACBS representative
8. Why do NACBS and Lochranza Country Inn have separate boards, and what is their relationship?

NACBS is a registered charity and owns the Lochranza Country Inn. The Inn is operated by a professional team who are steered by the LCI Board. The separation of the two allows a degree of independence in the operation of the Inn and a protection to the NACBS and its assets should the LCI business fail.

The LCI Board is elected by NACBS members and is answerable to the NACBS for the performance of the LCI business.

9. How do I buy shares?

The share offer that was opened to support the purchase of the Inn is now closed. However, we may have another offer so keep a look out.

10. Who are the NACBS board?

You can find full details about the board here

11. Do you keep Minutes of your Meetings?

Yes we write up notes or minutes at all our meetings. Should you wish to see any please contact the secretary.