We’re gonna need a bigger shed!
Community interest in Westbury’s proposed Men’s Shed has been overwhelming. Photo supplied.
The response to plans for a Men’s Shed in Westbury has been overwhelming, according to the president of the Interim Organising Committee, Harley Nicholls.
The committee held an information and consultation session on 24 August at Westbury Community Health Centre to gauge local interest in the concept and to seek input and advice from the local community.
‘There were fifty men in attendance. That was a lot more than we expected. I’m sure there would be many more in favour of the idea who didn’t make the meeting,’ he said.
Mr Nicholls said that the response to the public meeting was on such a scale that the committee really needs to rethink its strategy.
‘Our original plan was to operate in two locations. In a space behind the Westbury Community Health Centre for woodwork and in a section of a shed at the Franklin Street Council depot for metal work and other activities.
‘Clearly, the space at the Health Centre will not be able to accommodate our numbers so we will have to concentrate on the Franklin Street site, which itself is probably too small.
‘Consequently, we find ourselves having to reconsider our options.
‘Meander Valley Council have been very supportive so far and we’re negotiating with them regarding use of the Franklin Street site.’
Mr Nicholls said that the community response to the Men’s Shed project demonstrated that the medium to long term aim must be the establishment of a stand-alone, purpose-built facility.
‘Ideally, we want to have all our activities under one roof. That remains our aim but we have to start somewhere and the Franklin Street site will meet our immediate requirements.’
