PROPOSAL FOR SHED
- stamfordstreetallo
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
Date: Sunday, 1st February
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: The Community Plot
Dear Fellow Tenants,
We are excited to share a proposal for a new addition to our allotment site: Noel’s Shed.
As many of you know, we have long discussed the need for a shared space where we can gather, swap tips, and take shelter from the British weather. In memory of our dear friend and long-time tenant, Noel, we are proposing the installation of a high quality community shed that will serve as a hub for both our members and local community groups.
This is a collective project, and it is important that every tenant has a voice in how it takes shape. We will have the full proposal documents available on-site for you to view, including.
We hope to see as many of you there as possible to help us turn this vision into a reality for our society.
Warm regards,
Farhan and Phil (Chairs)
1. Executive Summary ‘The Vision’:
The committee proposes the installation of a multi-purpose timber pavilion on the Community Plot, affectionately named "Noel’s Shed." This project is born from a dual need: to create a lasting, meaningful legacy for Noel a long-standing and much-loved member and to provide a functional, all-weather heart for our growing society.
In recent years, the society has seen a wonderful shift toward a more social, inclusive environment. Initiatives led by previous committee members, Alina and Claire, proved there is a high demand for connection; our monthly coffee mornings have been a success. However, these gatherings are currently at the mercy of the British weather. Without a dedicated indoor space, our "community" remains seasonal.
Furthermore, the lack of indoor facilities is currently the primary barrier to external growth. While local schools and colleges have expressed interest in using our site for educational purposes, they are unable to commit to regular visits without a guaranteed dry space for students to sit, learn, and store belongings. Noel’s Shed is designed to be a hybrid indoor-outdoor space.
By providing a permanent roof over our community initiatives, we aim to transition from a collection of individual plots into a year-round, inclusive society. We believe this project is a fitting tribute.
2. Financial Plan & Funding:
The Committee has outlined the budget for Noel’s Shed below. The total project cost is £5,410.00, which covers the high-spec building, professional installation, and base preparation.
Current Financial Position
Our society currently holds a total of £6,972.36 in the bank. This is managed in two distinct "pots"
Current overall balance in the community garden pot is £4277.77 and there is £2695.59 in the tenant pot. We intend to use all of the sensory garden pot and use £1562.36 of the tenants funding for the remainder of the balance.
We propose to use the entirety of the Sensory Garden Fund, as Noel’s Shed will act as the structural centre piece of our community plot and sensory area. To meet the full cost, we will require a contribution of £1,132.23 from the general tenants’ pot.
The Committee has carefully considered this and ensured that even after this purchase, the society retains a healthy reserve of £1,562.36 for emergency repairs and site running costs. The previous chair kept a buffer of £1000 and I am hoping to continue this precedent.
Reinvestment & Recouping Costs:
We are committed to "paying back" the tenants' pot over the next 12 months in the same way we have done previously. We have a clear roadmap to recuperate the £1,132.23 through new revenue streams that this shed will help facilitate:
The On-Site Seedling Shop: A dedicated space in the new shed to sell member-grown plants and seeds to the public and fellow tenants.
External Funding: We are currently identifying three specific community grants and applied for some.
3. Options & Quotes (The “Due Diligence”):
The Committee conducted a review of several structures to ensure we are investing in a building that is durable, accessible, and fit for both tenant socialising and community group use. Options are available to view on request on Sundays meeting.
4. Installation & Logistics:
After researching several national suppliers, the Committee has chosen to partner with Dan’s Good Wood Shop, a highly-regarded local carpenter based right here in Chester. We believe Dan is the right person to bring "Noel’s Shed" to life. The work he has already done which you can see the links below. He has helped a number of local organisations with similar projects and we can go and see them if you want.
5. Dimensions & Costing Breakdown:
We have selected a "Hybrid Design" that maximizes the use of our community plot. This structure isn't just a shed; it is a sheltered pavilion designed to host indoor meetings and outdoor workshops simultaneously.
The Specification: "The Pavilion Style":
The proposed structure features a high-spec timber room with an integrated Pergola-style overhang (Lean-to). This creates a "veranda" effect, allowing people to stay dry while working outside or for schools to have an outdoor classroom area.
Feature
Specification Details
Enclosed Shed Area = measuring 15ft x 9.8ft (Large enough for 10-12 people seated).
Covered External Area = 15ft x 9.2ft (Open-sided with two supporting legs)
Total Footprint = 15ft x 19ft
Roofing = Full continuous Rubber Roof (EDPM) covering both sections
6. AI images (not to scale and actual spec but an example)
The roof will be flat on the top and have no windows but plans may change after consultation with tenants.
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