I am thinking of starting a Shell hosting and website design forum. Do you think it would be used?

Probably not. I can't see a reason why, also it would take a lot of time. I also tryed to setup numerous web sites, hoping to have people visit but really was not able to find success in any of them.

But hey, if you have the time, money, and the dedication required to achieve such a thing, all the more to you.

THe only problem with shells is their history of abuse :(

But some companies handle it well.

DD-SNC I have sent you a PM