A GROUP caring for Herefordshire men's health has dodged an eviction notice after concerns they could not afford a new tenancy offered by the council.
Ross-on-Wye Men's Shed is a charity based in an industrial unit on Great Western Court in Ross-on-Wye, which is owned by Herefordshire Council.
Mark Gunn, committee member, previously said the group has been able to use the unit free of charge since their start-up in 2018 and losing the tenancy would force the centre to close.
But in December 2021 Mr Gunn said the charity was contacted via email by a chartered surveyor employed by the council.
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It told them to either agree to an annual five-year tenancy lease at a cost of £13, 400 per year or face a three-month notice to quit, said Mr Gunn.
The council gave them until April 29 to vacate if they could not meet the new tenancy, which would have forced the Men's Shed to close.
A Herefordshire Council spokesperson previously said: "The council can no longer afford to treat this group differently to others."
But after lengthy discussions, the Men's Shed has been able to agree on a tenancy with Herefordshire Council and local councillors and secured a lease for the next five years in the industrial unit, said the group.
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"We are awaiting final paperwork, but an agreement on terms that are mutually acceptable has been confirmed. This allows us to remain where we are and to continue our relationship with the community," said Mr Gunn.
"We are extremely grateful for everyone who has supported us in this matter whether by signing the local petition, positive comments on social media.
"We look forward to working with all the community to repair and restore valued items."
The charity exists for the improvement of the health and well-being of men over the age of 55 who have retired and want to give something back to the local community.
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