Congratulations to the Pottsville Men’s Shed for securing a temporary site to operate their shed at the Pottsville Primary School – and many thanks to the principal for allowing this to happen. It is also good news that, according to the 11 December 2014 council meeting minutes, a permanent site is available for them at the Barry Sheppard sports field (Hastings Point).
So why are the Men’s Shed still progressing with their development application at the temporary location at the Black Rocks sports field where Council has resolved that a 5 year limited lease or licence should be considered and that the building must be relocatable? It does not make sense that they would pursue a temporary site when they already have a temporary site and a permanent site is available elsewhere. What a waste of taxpayers’ money in relocation costs and what a waste of Men’s Shed members’ money in duplicating development application costs!
It also does not make sense that the Men’s Shed would continue with the Black Rocks development application when they failed to secure a community grant to build there and would have no money to pay for the shed.
The Barry Sheppard site is centrally located within their membership catchment between Kingscliff and Pottsville. There appears to be plenty of room for expansion (which they have indicated they need). The AFL Club have announced that the Men’s Shed are welcome. Because of its public visibility, there would be less likelihood of vandalism, and they would be able to share security surveillance costs with the AFL and pony clubs. Not to mention opportunities for mentoring with AFL and pony club members.
Lynette Dickinson, Pottsville
