Ski hut transforms into men’s shed

Published: Friday 20 September 2024

This image shows the ski hut which is moving from its previous location in the Lowther Hills to the centre of Leadhills and being transformed into a Men's Shed

An ambitious project has seen a former ski hut move from its previous location in the Lowther Hills to the centre of Leadhills.

And the hut is now in the process of being transformed into a men’s shed.

Funding from the council- administered Renewable Energy Fund (REF) will allow the re-erection work to continue, including internal refurbishment, a new kitchen, solar panels and a heating system.

Lowther Men’s Shed received more than £94,000, with the money being paid into the REF by Andershaw Wind Farm.

Chair of Lowther Men’s Shed, Bob Lowdon, said: “Once the shed is erected and all finishings complete, it will be a fantastic community asset that can be used not just by men’s shed members (of which there are more than 70), but also by other clubs and organisations across the Lowther Hills.

“It has taken more than 18 months of hard work, especially by our secretary, and the members are grateful for the support of Seniors Together and grant funders.

“Without their help and support the project could not have reached this stage.

“The shed members and residents of the Lowther Hills are excited by this project, especially now the foundations are in ready for the erection before winter begins.”

Chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “This is an exciting and innovative project, and moving the former ski hut five miles down from the hills was certainly not an easy task.

“The Lowther Men’s Shed deserve enormous credit for the work they have already put in, and I am delighted that the REF can now support the project further.

“I look forward to seeing the men’s shed when it is completed, and it will be a fantastic asset for the local rural community.”

You can find out more about the REF on the council website.

Men’s Sheds across South Lanarkshire are supported by the council’s Seniors Together project, which aims to improve the quality of life of older people across the area.

The photo above shows the ski hut at its original location in the Lowther Hills.