Community groups encouraged to complete survey on Community Asset Transfer

Published: 28 May 2021

Community groups in Exeter are being encouraged to take part in an online survey about Community Asset Transfer. Two informative workshops are also being organised to help people find out more about the initiative.

Exeter City Council is in the process of developing a clear policy framework for responding to future requests on the transferring of its assets to community organisations.

The Council has already transferred a number of assets to the community and voluntary sector, such as Exeter’s Valley Parks to Devon Wildlife Trust and Queen’s Crescent Gardens to St James Community Association.

However the local authority already has some 30 other sites in community management either through transfer or long leases.

Cllr Amal Ghusain, Lead Councillor for Communities and Culture, said she was keen to get as many community groups involved in the consultation and completing the survey.  

“Devon Wildlife Trust and St James Community Association are two great examples of how assets can be transferred over with huge benefits to the local community.

“This policy, which we are currently developing, will help us build on our current experiences and best practice to provide a clear framework for responding to future requests from community organisations.”

All community organisations, whether currently interested in the transfer or not, are encouraged to help inform the policy by taking part in the survey.

The survey, which opens on Tuesday 1 June and runs until 30 July, can be found on the City Council website 

Two workshops on Community Asset Transfer are being run by Exeter Connect on 6 and 7 July. The workshops will give groups and individuals a chance to explore more about Community Asset Transfer, the Council’s draft policy and how it may support their community. To book a place contact Exeter Connect on info@exeterconnect.org.uk and specify which workshop you would like to attend.