Community-led initiative transforms former Torry Depot into a hub for wellbeing, skills development and sustainable local action, supported by the University of Aberdeen through JUST-Systems.
A new chapter for community development in Torry has begun with the opening of the Torry Men’s Shed in the former Aberdeen City Council depot at Mansefield Place, marking a major milestone in a collaborative effort involving local residents, the Torry Men's Shed community, the JUST-Systems research program and Aberdeen City Council.
The new facility provides a permanent base for the growing Men’s Shed movement in Torry, offering opportunities for social connections, skills development, community projects and improved wellbeing of residents. Men’s Sheds bring people together through activities such as woodworking, repair, upcycling, gardening and DIY, helping tackle social isolation while creating benefits for the community.
The project has been supported by the University of Aberdeen through JUST-Systems, a UKRI-funded research program focused on placing communities at the heart of action in the transition to net zero. JUST-Systems worked alongside the Shed to help secure occupancy of the site and is providing expertise to assess opportunities for connecting retrofit and local energy opportunities to the activities of the Shed.
The former depot had been underutilised for several years before being granted to the community group through a license agreement by Aberdeen City Council. The ambition is to create a vibrant community hub that supports wellbeing, learning and community participation, while at the same time informing how we can successfully transition as a society and bring communities with us.
Professor Tavis Potts, Lead Investigator of JUST-Systems, said: “It is critically important that we place people and communities at the heart of delivering climate action. This can be achieved through practical, place-based initiatives that build local capacity, create community ownership and deliver a just transition in the region.”
Professor John Bone, from the Just Transition Lab, and Case Lead for JUST-Systems, “The opening of Torry Men’s Shed demonstrates how community groups, local authorities and universities can work together to create lasting social, environmental and wellbeing benefits. This is just the start of the journey, and we are excited to continue working with our community partners in Torry.”
Dr Leonardo Ricaurte, Research Fellow, Aberdeen co-Team Lead for JUST-Systems, said: “Access to affordable and suitable spaces is essential for community groups to thrive. We are delighted to have supported Torry Men’s Shed in securing a base that will enable members to expand their activities and strengthen their contribution to the local community.”
The opening represents a significant achievement for community-led regeneration in Torry and highlights the value of partnerships between residents, local government and universities in creating healthier, more resilient and sustainable places. JUST-Systems is creating new insights on how to deliver effective place interventions that connect climate action with community wealth and wellbeing.