Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working closely with the Wareham Area Men’s Shed group to develop and advance a planning application for their new workshop in Wareham. This project has now reached an important milestone, with the application recently submitted to Dorset Council. I am genuinely delighted to have been given the opportunity, through Chapman Lily Planning, to support Men’s Shed in bringing forward a scheme that will strengthen their presence and capabilities within the local community.
Before delving into the planning aspects of the project, it is essential to recognise the invaluable role that Men’s Shed plays within Wareham and the surrounding area. They provide a warm and supportive environment where individuals can come together, share practical skills, build friendships, and contribute positively to one another’s mental wellbeing. It is a much‑needed community service that offers connection, purpose, and support to those who may otherwise feel isolated. The impact of Men’s Shed is significant and far‑reaching, and it is this strong community value that inspired us to engage so deeply with the project from the very beginning.
Having local ties to Purbeck, it has been truly rewarding to work closely with Men’s Shed and provide them with a professional service they may not have otherwise been able to access. More than a year’s work has gone into shaping the submitted application, which follows a painstaking search by Men’s Shed to find a suitable and sustainable base. The potential co‑location with Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club presents a fantastic opportunity that would not only provide long‑term stability but also embed Men’s Shed more firmly within the heart of the community.
In discussing the project, the Men’s Shed Chairman, Harold Forbes, expressed his appreciation, noting that;
“We are grateful to Chapman Lily Planning for giving their advice and time for free to support our cause. This is a major new chapter in the Shed’s history – and a necessary one as we continue to grow our membership. We simply need more space.
This sentiment is testament to the strong partnership that has developed throughout the process and the importance of this application succeeding.
Although the proposal seeks consent for a temporary structure, the 40‑year period of temporary use offers Men’s Shed a stable base from which to continue delivering their vital support to Wareham’s community. This continuity will allow them to strengthen their work, deepen their impact, and remain a fundamental asset to the area.
While the application is still in its early stages, it is essential that consideration is given to supporting it. Men’s Shed is an outstanding charity that provides genuine, tangible benefits to the people of Wareham, offering connection, purpose, and support to those who need it most. We would encourage those who support the project to make their voices heard as the application progresses. Chapman Lily Planning is proud to support such a remarkable organisation.
I trust that we can count on your support as the process moves forward.
