Popular Hampden Park shed gets funding from ward councillors

The Shed opened in Brassey Parade last September and while people can just pop in for a coffee and a natter, they also offer a wide range of activities and workshops, from seed planting, tile making and sewing, to chutney making and copper foiling.

The project is connected to Age Concern and although mainly for the over 50s, Shed coordinator Jack Isabeau-Doo said she and her volunteers are also starting to build links with the whole community.

Jack has been busy approaching various organisations to seek funding for the Shed, and asked Hampden Park ward councillors Colin Swansborough, Jim Murray and Dean Sabri for £1,800 from the devolved budget to fund a pottery kiln.

Councillor Swansborough said, “Having visited a few times, I can confirm that the Shed is a great addition to the community.

“It gives people an opportunity to make new friends and learn a new skill at the same time, if they want to. We were pleased to fund the kiln as it means Jack and the team can now offer pottery workshops. I might even have a go myself.”

Officials say Jack has worked hard to raise the profile of the Shed and secure funding.

She said, “We are overwhelmed with the generosity of the council. The grant has enabled us to provide a great resource for the wider community and it’s already proving popular.”

Shed opening times are usually 10am-4pm on a rota basis of either Wednesday to Friday or Thursday to Saturday.

People can pop in or search for Hampden Park Shed on Facebook.

Other schemes the Hampden Park councillors have funded recently include money towards the upkeep of defibrillators in the area, the planting of bee friendly flower beds in Lottbridge Drive, parenting classes for local dads, helping to fund Age UK courses at the local community centre and money for local schools to grow their own flowers and vegetables.

The devolved budget is a pot of money each ward councillor can donate to community projects.