The Journey continues

The North Lowestoft Men’s Shed has been in dialogue regarding the unoccupied former Great Eastern Railway Stables building on Denmark Rd. North Lowestoft Men's Shed first looked inside the building a year ago (March 2021).

The Community Rail Partnership (CRP) and Lowestoft Central Project (LCP) have been investigating options for the building to be re-used with owners, Network Rail, and have successfully been able to have the land on which the building stands included in the conservation area. This inclusion has opened up the possibility of funds being made available from the Railway Heritage Trust, which have indicated their interest following information supplied relating the buildings history, including its former use as stables and being the first railway building bombed by Zeppelin air raid during WW1. Positive site visits have taken place between the RHT, CRP, Network Rail and LCP. The cost of required survey work is currently being awaited.

The current situation is that the CRP & LCP have persuaded Network Rail that there could be a credible use for the premises and suitable legal framework to allow a lease. This would be fully dependent on the outcome of three surveys, which would require agreement on any specific areas identified for works prior to the premises being occupied. The CRP & LCP are currently prepared to investigate funding the surveys and are awaiting quotes. If the surveys do not show major structural issues and any package of required works are feasible and fundable, we may be able to take the matter forward in conjunction with the Men’s shed and RHT.

As a note of comfort, both the CRP and LCP wish to see the building utilised by a Men’s Shed – It is hoping to provide an appropriate legal framework to allow this and maximise the opportunities available for grant support.