Rumours abound and, yes, we are in discussion with the Shire of Northampton about a potential relocation to a new purpose-built site at the industrial area.
Progress is being made with regard to allocation of land, concept plan, structures and
finance. This move represents an opportunity for our members to create a custom environment that separates the Containers for Change activity from our core Men’s Shed functionality. We will be able to have dedicated work areas, meeting room facilities, and full amenities - far removed from the cramped conditions that we currently endure.
The back-story#
Council has expressed a desire to move our facilities away from the historical railway precinct in a measure that wil return the area to more tourist and history-oriented activity. Additionally, although for a minimal amount of time per week, our activities can be noisy and disruptive to our near-neighbours. A move will give them some peace.
Where we are at right now#
Council intends to make available a suitably-sized portion of the block of land upon which their existing works depot in 7th Avenue is situated. We will have ample room to enable the construction of two sheds and have all of the mandated parking space required, along with traffic friendly one-way entrance and exit to the street.
Ideally, the Men’s Shed and Containers for Change sheds would be separate, which would enable us to build a safer, more ergonomically friendly containers shed, with zero forklift/human interaction and a split-level floor so that the bulk bins can be lower than they presently are, making it easier for our volunteers to empty buckets of containers into them. The Men’s Shed would be partitioned with separate workshop and amenities areas, with the amenities are having separate meeting room, kitchen and ablution areas.
The build would, by necessity, be a joint-venture between Council and the Northampton Men’s Shed and The Men’s Shed has committed to a not-inconsiderable financial outlay.
Quotes have been fielded for the construction of the buildings and the provision of concept plans that we can submit to council. These quotes are now with us and will be adjudicated by the leadership team of the Shed, with our recommendations being transmitted to the membership at large at a duly convened Special Meeting.
Public discourse#
Many readers would be aware that all people who volunteer their time to help sort and count containers are automatically extended the privilege of membership to the Men’s Shed of Northampton and, as such, your participation in the process, going forward, is encouraged. Please note that unless you have taken the step of completing the official membership forms, your role is limited to non-voting Associate Member, but full membership is free and just requires that form to be filled in.
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