Forfar Men’s Shed has new home as council backs asset transfer

The Forfar Men’s Shed team have agreed a 25-year lease for an unused workshop at Orchardbank which will become their new base.

Angus Council’s policy and resources committee unanimously approved the application for a community asset transfer.

Forfar Conservative councillor Braden Davy said: “The asset in question is currently unused and in need of repair, and it makes sense to bring buildings back into use where possible.

“This move will mean a permanent base for the Forfar Men’s shed, a permanent location, and a sense of long-term security which will allow the local group to build and expand their operation, while bringing otherwise vacant property into use, and to a higher standard.

“The men’s shed already does fantastic work in Forfar, and I hope by us approving this CAT we can see the organisation grow, supporting other local ventures and projects in the process.”

The group intends to apply for Angus Council Leader funding of £10,000 to support upgrading and the installion of equipment.

Forfar Men’s Shed currently has a short-term lease on lock-ups at Lochside Road.

The group said the acquisition at Orchardbank would be a major step in progressing towards providing a better and more comprehensive service to its members and the community at large.

Forfar SNP councillor Lynne Devine said it was a welcome development as the group was without a workshop and meeting space.

She said the group had been moving from place to place.

“They have been homeless for quite a while and this will give them the opportunity to increase their membership.”

The group will upgrade the workshops.

Head of legal Ian Lorimer said there was “much to commend in the aims and objectives of this community group and their plans for this unused asset”.