Men’ s Shed to take on old school as HQ

Acommunity group is taking over an old school – despite failing to dash lingering doubts over whether they can afford it.

Aberdeenshire councillors were divided on handing over the keys of the former Fife Street School to Banff, Macduff and District Men’s Shed.

Some suggested the move would be a “risk too far” for the local authority.

It was only after the Men’s Shed explained plans to recoup some money by renting out the building that the community asset transfer (CAT) was rubber-stamped.

The volunteers are “over the moon” to have passed the final hurdle in their search for a new home.

And under the terms of the freshly agreed lease, they will pay just £100 to the council per year.

As well as a new base for members, it will be open to use for other groups as a community hub.

However, the decision came against the recommendation of council officers who were unconvinced the group could afford to look after the building.

They urged members to refuse the scheme after a business plan presented by the Men’s Shed offered an “unclear picture of current and future viability” of the project.

At the meeting, group member Lynne Rae said the Men’s Shed had run out of space at its current location on North Castle Street in Banff.

And she tried to allay doubts over the outfit’s finances as she pleaded for the 99-year lease to be granted.

She said: “The additional space at the Fife Street School will allow them to undertake a greater number of projects.

“It’s been a long wait for these members, they have waited and looked for a long time for premises.

“They have occupied their current premises for almost four years, with an annual rent of £4,800, managing the finances comfortably using monies raised by members and donated by individuals and organisations.”

And she explained Home-Start Deveron and Macduff Market have expressed an interest in renting office space.

Lynne added: “The business plan shows the rental income can cover most of the costs.”

Councillor Mark Findlater urged his colleagues to go against the officers’ wishes.

He said: “The benefit to the community of Macduff ’s wellbeing, the potential of a community hub that will benefit hundreds of people’s lives and the potential loss of this building to the community far outweighs the risks given by council officers and a small financial receipt if it were sold.”

However, Councillor Jim Gifford was less optimistic.

He said: “I think it’s a massive, massive challenge for the group and I think it’s a risk that is just too far for the council.”

Councillors voted 10-4 in favour of handing it over.

NEW HOME: Banff, Macduff and District Men’s Shed at the old Fife Street School.