Council supports men’s shed project’s bid for permanent home

22 June 2018

A flourishing men’s shed project has moved a step closer to purchasing a permanent base from Aberdeen City Council.

Members of the City Growth and Resources Committee this week agreed to move forward with a proposed Community Asset Transfer which would enable the Peterculter to Culter and District Mens Shed (PDMS) to buy a former cadet hut in Peterculter.

The group will have the opportunity to purchase the unit for a nominal fee, below market value, as the Council supports its plans for valuable community work. The hut was last used by the Territorial Army in 2010, having been leased from the Council.

Already 62 members of the community have joined the men’s shed project, which plans to host a wide range of activities. Similar men’s shed groups have offered sessions including woodworking, metalworking, furniture restoration, cooking, model making and gardening with a focus on expanding social networks for members and improving wellbeing.

Cllr Marie Bouton, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said: “There is investment being made throughout the city in improving the cultural and social offering for residents and this is an excellent example of that at a community level.

“Whether through art and music or the range of activities on offer through men’s shed groups, the aim is to enhance the opportunities for people to socialise and engage in community life in a way that is tailored to individual needs.

“Isolation has been identified as an issue to be addressed and the men’s shed concept has been very successful in doing that. This group has been very committed and energetic, already attracting strong support, and the Council is pleased to be able to play its part through the Community Asset Transfer.

“The aims of the group dovetail with those of the Council and the plans also have the benefit of bringing a disused building back into use as a community hub which will be a positive addition to the area it serves.”