One of Aberdeenshire’s newest men’s sheds has been given the go-ahead by councillors.
The community asset transfer of Inverurie Men’s Shed was officially completed yesterday by Aberdeenshire Council’s Garioch area committee.
The handover of the garage, located at the town’s Harlaw Way, was the final step in a four-stage process and means the group can now officially open its doors.
The centre is already in line to be one of the north-east’s biggest men’s sheds with about 80 members involved already.
Yesterday councillors agreed to the asset transfer and the lease of the building – at an annual rent of £100 – at a meeting at Inverurie’s Gordon House.
Men’s sheds promote health and well-being by giving local men a space to socialise and work on DIY projects.
The group have a polytunnel set up at the Harlaw Day Care Centre to grow vegetables and plants, whilst its metal and woodwork facilities at Harlaw Way are nearing completion.
Two cabins have also been set up in the yard area of the men’s shed site for social activities.
At the committee meeting yesterday, local leaders said it was about time the handover was finalised.
Inverurie councillor Bryan Stuart said: “I’d like to express my thanks to the (council) officers involved for making this happen. There has been a lot of effort put into this and it is an excellent result.”
Fellow town councillor, Richard Cowling, added it was “great to see” the group progressing.
Meanwhile, Garioch area manager, Douglas Milne, extended his gratitude to the council officers who “really, really worked together to make this happen”.
Secretary of the group, Alistair Smith, said it was “excellent news”.
“First of all we are very happy and thankful we have got the handover of the building and a lease as well,” he said.
“We should also thank Aberdeenshire Council and would like to express our thanks to the Garioch area committee.
“We have had a lot of support from them not only in getting a building, but in getting financial help as well. We have been really grateful for the help we have been given.
“The workshop is about done. This means we can open up officially.”