A MEN’S SHED in Bayswater is a step closer with the council identifying a preferred site at the corner of Kings Street and Raymond Avenue.

The council has earmarked an existing 1000sqm shed, behind the Rangers HQ, used to store old furniture.

Under the mooted plan, the men’s shed association would have access to half the shed, with the other half kept for council junk.

“Having a building to move into means that if it all goes to plan we could be up and running in around six months,” says Tony Green, a member of the men’s shed steering committee.

“There is great enthusiasm for this project and at our first public meeting we had around 50 people turn up.

“We have formed a steering committee and plan to put out an expression of interest for those interested in joining.”

Other sites shortlisted include ground behind the Noranda Shopping Centre and at Bedford bowling club, but neither have existing infrastructure and would require building a shed.

“After waiting so long to get things going, we want to get something up and running quickly,” says Mr Green.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK