Dingwall Men's Shed 'craft village' vision takes step forward after sewage pipe setback
A VISION to create a thriving "craft village" at the heart of Ross-shire's county town is back on track after overcoming a setback during the coronavirus crisis lockdown.
Handy activists with the Dingwall and District Men's Shed charitable group have lent their DIY talents to several transformational projects in the area and been credited with helping to reduce social isolation and loneliness.
Their plans to turn a disused skateboard park near Ross County’s Global Energy Stadium into a "craft village" complex envisage a creative hub where a wide variety of skills are freely shared across the generations.
Highland Council backed the scheme and proposals revealed back in May at the height of the lockdown provided a beacon of hope for better things ahead. Hopes the area could develop into a trailblazing centre for activities ranging from woodwork and metalwork to horticulture and arts and crafts won the endorsement of local MSP Kate Forbes who has backed the concept since its early days.
The project was approved in February based on Scottish Water information on the location of a sewer line. But when members failed to locate the pipe and found another in a different location, they were forced to re-submit the planning application.
That was completed earlier this month after delays due to lockdown restrictions, with the new application now set to be decided within weeks.
The group is seeking approval for a project housing workshop, common room, welfare and arts and crafts units at Jubilee Park Road.
It would also feature a log cabin with decking, polytunnel, shed and greenhouse.
Two larch-clad portable buildings would be joined together on land near the Ross Memorial Hospital building and a Highland Football Academy all-weather pitch.
The men’s or community shed concept originated in Australia as a way to improve the health and wellbeing of older men and has spread across the globe.
Men’s shed’s trustee and treasurer Stephen McKeever said: “It has been a little bit frustrating given circumstances regarding the sewer line, but we’re hopeful we’re back on track now.Our current premises in the local scout hut are shared, so our space is limited.
“The new buildings would be fantastic for our 30 members and we are hopeful of growing our community as we’re much more than just a men’s shed and welcome everyone.”
The organisers are also hopeful of being granted a 30-year lease for the new site by the council, who have indicated the good news may come in the next two to three weeks.
Related: Dingwall 'craft village' vision takes major step forward
