The Shed is back: Tameside’s beloved workshop reopens in Dukinfield

After months of hard work, dedication, and a fair amount of sawdust, The Shed Tameside has officially reopened, this time in a brand-new, purpose-fitted premises in the heart of Dukinfield.

Now located at 3–4 Wellington Parade, Dukinfield SK16 4LE, the popular community workshop is already buzzing with activity, chatter, and the unmistakable smell of freshly cut wood. Run by a team of passionate volunteers, The Shed is a registered charity offering a unique space for people - primarily men, but also women on Fridays - to come together, share skills and work on creative projects.

The official opening day, despite a bout of typically miserable weather, saw a strong turnout of supporters and local dignitaries who gathered to see the new space and celebrate the journey from what was once an empty shell into a fully functional, state-of-the-art community hub.

Speaking at the event, Shibley Alam, Civic Mayor of Tameside, praised the transformation and the volunteers who made it possible: “It’s amazing. The work they’ve put in and all the volunteers who work really hard to make this event happen. I’m just so thrilled about the furniture; I can’t take my eyes off it.”

The new facility includes a fully equipped woodworking workshop, an improved dust extraction system that meets all current health and safety legislation, and a clean, quiet activity space for painting, meetings, and social sessions. The space has been designed with accessibility and wellbeing in mind, following feedback from current members and the wider community.

Mike, one of the key volunteers involved in setting up the new space, reflected on the journey: “It’s been a lot of work over the last few months, but it’s brilliant to see everyone’s reactions. The extraction system, the workshop, it’s turned out just how we wanted.”

The new layout gives the charity more freedom to grow and respond to community needs: “We’ve now got control over what we do. We can hold new activities in the dust-free room next door. We’re canvassing the community to see what they want. It’s not just about woodworking; it’s about connection and opportunity.”

The work being produced is already turning heads - from hand-turned pens made from scrap wood to large custom planters and public projects: “We’ve just installed a planter at Dukinfield Library with a built-in bench and bug house and delivered 60 birdhouses there too. If it can be imagined, we’ll try to make it.”

Mike is also keen to bring new members and volunteers in: “Whether you want to learn a skill, help out, or just get out of the house, we’re here.”

While the tools and timber are impressive, it’s the human connections formed within these four walls that really define The Shed’s value.

Alan, a long-time member and volunteer, shared his emotional journey about how the project helped him overcome the isolation of PTSD: “I didn’t go out for five years. My son noticed something about men in sheds at Loxley House. I went to the door seven times before I could make myself go in. On the seventh time, I forced myself and I’ve not looked back since.”

The move to the new premises, he says, makes a world of difference: “It means more space - you’re not on top of each other. In the old place, you’d bump into people and risk getting hurt. And the dust, people were just sitting having a brew, but still breathing it in. Here, it’s safer, cleaner, healthier. It means a lot.”

And for Alan, the social aspect is just as crucial: “It’s given me company. I used to avoid people. Now I come in three days a week. I can talk; I can be myself. That’s what it’s all about.”

Also present at the opening was Diane Hawkins, Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, who underlined the broader social impact of the project: “It’s not just about the skills people learn, it’s about overcoming social isolation. Men in particular often don’t talk about how they feel, and places like this provide a safe space for them to connect, even if it’s just over a brew and a biscuit. The sense of companionship here is so important, and it’s clear how excited and proud everyone is of what’s been achieved.”

The Shed’s transformation wouldn’t have been possible without a host of helping hands. A huge thank-you has gone out to Morrisons Dukinfield, G&J Kitchens, Peter Lowe, Danny Brooks, Alex Corbett, Toby and Adam, Laura, Paul and their team from Vodafone UK, Kate Dewsnap and many others who donated time, labour, materials, and money to make the dream a reality.

As the team shared on Facebook following the grand opening: “We’ve gone from an empty shell to a superb (if we do say so ourselves) facility. We hope you like it as much as we do. Now, to open tomorrow and get back to what we do best.”

The Shed is always looking for new members and volunteers - whether you want to learn a new skill, help build something amazing, or simply enjoy a warm cuppa in good company. The doors are now open, and the community is invited to drop by, get involved, and see what The Shed has to offer.

For more information, visit The Shed Tameside’s Facebook page or pop into their new home at Wellington Parade.