In a significant boost for grassroots organisations, England’s new “community right to buy” legislation has come into effect, enabling local groups to purchase community assets unchallenged for the first time. This transformative law empowers communities to acquire properties like pubs and libraries, potentially revitalising neglected spaces and ensuring they serve the public good. One notable beneficiary is Domestic Abuse WA12, which has long sought to acquire a derelict pub in Merseyside to provide essential services for vulnerable families.
New Legislation Empowers Local Groups
The new rights established under the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act mark a pivotal moment in community governance. By granting grassroots organisations the ability to buy assets without facing opposition, the legislation aims to promote local empowerment and strengthen community ties. This change is particularly relevant in the context of growing concerns over the disappearance of local amenities and the need for sustainable community resources.
Debbie Taylor, head of Domestic Abuse WA12, reflects on the lengthy struggle to acquire the Ram’s Head pub in Newton-le-Willows. “It’s more than a building,” she states. “It represents safety, stability, and a future for people in our communities left with no options when they’re in crisis.” Taylor hopes that with the new legislation, her organisation can finally turn the disused pub into a vital community hub, addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery for families affected by domestic abuse.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
While the new law offers unprecedented opportunities, it also comes with challenges. Under the previous “right to bid” scheme, only a mere 2% of community assets transferred to local ownership, primarily due to funding difficulties. Now, organisations have up to 12 months to secure the funds necessary for a purchase, yet the absence of a dedicated financial support mechanism raises concerns.
Tony Armstrong, chief executive of Locality, expressed cautious optimism about the legislation. “This is a real watershed moment, and we are thrilled,” he said. However, he highlighted the critical need for dedicated funding to support community ownership. Without financial backing, only the wealthiest communities may be able to raise the necessary funds, potentially leading to a disparity in who can benefit from the new rights.
Expanding the Definition of “Community Assets”
A significant aspect of the new legislation is the broadened definition of what constitutes an “asset of community value.” Previously, a property had to have served a community purpose within the last five years; this cap has now been lifted. Additionally, the definition now includes assets that contribute both economically and socially to their communities, as well as a new category for sports facilities. This expansion could empower more groups to take control of properties that are crucial for their local economies and social networks.
Deana Bamford from the Coalville CAN co-operative is optimistic about these changes. Her group aims to transform the town’s shuttered market hall into a vibrant community hub for clubs and local enterprises. With the new rights, they can appeal decisions made by local authorities that previously blocked their attempts to declare the market hall an asset of community value. “Hopefully, that will give us more traction to be able to push them to say ‘we’re going for it again,'” Bamford noted, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives.
The Future of Community Ownership
As communities across England begin to explore the possibilities presented by the new legislation, the focus will now shift to ensuring that these rights translate into real-world benefits. The potential for revitalised communal spaces is immense, but it hinges on the availability of financial resources and support systems.
Bamford emphasises the long-term vision for community ownership: “Once the asset’s been secured and upgraded, it can change its purpose, but it can’t change its ownership.” This reflects a broader hope that community assets remain in local hands, fostering not only economic resilience but also a stronger sense of belonging and identity.
Why it Matters
The introduction of the community right to buy legislation is a crucial move towards empowering local groups to reclaim and revitalise their communities. By enabling the purchase of community assets, this legislation has the potential to address pressing social issues, enhance local economies, and strengthen the fabric of community life. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the commitment to providing the necessary financial support, ensuring that all communities, regardless of wealth, can benefit from these new rights. As the public health implications of community well-being become increasingly recognised, fostering environments where local groups can thrive will be paramount.
