In a significant shift towards community empowerment, the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act has come into force, enabling grassroots organisations to secure ownership of local assets for the first time. This groundbreaking legislation, described by ministers as the most substantial transfer of power to communities in a generation, presents new opportunities for groups like Domestic Abuse WA12, which has long sought to transform the derelict Ram’s Head pub in Newton-le-Willows into a vital community resource.
A New Era of Community Ownership
Debbie Taylor, who leads Domestic Abuse WA12, expressed her elation at the new law, stating, “It’s more than a building. It’s what it can represent in the future for us and for the families that we’re supporting.” After nearly three years of attempting to purchase the Ram’s Head, Taylor’s organisation now has the potential to convert the vacant pub into a hub for essential services, providing safety and stability for individuals in crisis.
This new legislation allows community groups to challenge asset ownership without the former time constraints. Under the previous “right to bid” system, organisations had only six months to raise the necessary funds, which often proved too short a timeframe for many. Studies indicated that less than 2% of community assets successfully transitioned into local ownership, largely due to funding difficulties. Now, with a full year to secure financing, the prospects for community-led initiatives appear more promising.
Expanding the Definition of Community Assets
One of the pivotal changes brought about by this legislation is the broadened definition of “assets of community value.” Previously, a property had to demonstrate usage for community benefit within the last five years to qualify. This restriction has now been lifted, allowing a wider array of buildings to be considered, including those contributing to both economic and social wellbeing. Additionally, new categories for sporting assets have been introduced, further enhancing the possibilities for community-led projects.
Deana Bamford, from the co-operative Coalville CAN, is among those optimistic about these changes. Her organisation aspires to revive the shuttered market hall in Coalville, transforming it into a vibrant community hub. The local council initially rejected the co-operative’s application to designate the market hall as an asset of community value; however, the new law now allows them to appeal this decision. “Hopefully that will give us more traction to be able to push them to say ‘we’re going for it again,'” Bamford remarked, highlighting the renewed potential for community engagement.
Funding Challenges Remain
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the new rights, challenges loom on the funding front. Tony Armstrong, chief executive of Locality, has cautioned that without financial backing, the impact of this legislation could be limited. The government has yet to renew the £150 million Community Ownership Fund, which previously supported groups in acquiring local assets. Armstrong voiced concerns that without a dedicated funding source, only the wealthiest communities may successfully navigate the financial requirements necessary to take advantage of this new right.
“The key risk for this is that it remains an achievement on paper, rather than being something that can be taken up, up and down the country,” Armstrong warned. The success of this initiative largely hinges on the ability of community organisations to secure the necessary resources to realise their ambitions.
Why it Matters
This transformative legislation offers a beacon of hope for communities across England, providing the tools needed to reclaim local spaces and foster resilience. As grassroots organisations work to bridge gaps in services and combat social isolation, the potential for revitalised community hubs becomes increasingly critical in a post-pandemic landscape. However, the long-term success of this initiative will depend on the government’s commitment to supporting these efforts through adequate funding and resources. The future of community ownership rests not only on the spirit of local activism but also on the infrastructure that enables it to flourish.
