13-February-2018

Media: Rotorua Daily Post

Topic: Menz Shed follow up

Enquiry

The reporter asked for Council's response to the following comments from the Menz Shed members -

They said they hadn't had any communication from the council about the move- one of them said someone from the council had been appointed to liaise with them, but had then gone on leave. Could you please clarify what communication there has been with the group since they were told they would have to move? They also said they had been given a 3-month reprieve before they had to leave- could you please confirm when they will have to vacate?

They said they had been offered the use of a rugby clubroom, but that was not suitable for what they needed (e.g. not enough room for machines, two storeys which made it difficult for older members).

They said they were really worried about not finding a new premises and having to shut down the group.

Response

Response to Rotorua Daily Post

Council and the Menz Shed agreed in December that the group will receive three months' notice before needing to vacate current premises. We don't yet know when that will be as there has been no decision made as yet about the future of the property.

In the meantime, Council staff are keeping an eye out for any Council properties that are becoming available and may fit the needs of the Menz Shed. So far we haven't identified anywhere.