A GROUP aiming to tackle social isolation is edging closer to achieving its ambition of opening a community workshop.

Avon Valley Shed wants to transform an old toilet block in Fordingbridge by creating a space where people can make and mend items as well as sharing skills.

Fordingbridge Town Council heard that the group would not need to submit a change of use planning application.

Ian Lemon, of Avon Valley Shed, said the project had already “generated an awful lot of interest” in the community, adding: “We’d like to try and move this forward and progress it.”

Cllr Paul Anstey said the council should draw up a lease as soon as possible.

Mr Lemon said: “I want to thank everyone very much for your support. We won’t let you down and will do everything we can to make this a success to the benefit of Fordingbridge.”