We have an ongoing strategy to make the best use of our land and buildings. We currently lease a number of assets to voluntary and community organisations, usually on advantageous terms.
The community asset transfer process lets community groups take charge of important buildings like libraries, community centres or leisure facilities. Why? Because local people often know best what their area needs. Plus, this hands-on approach usually means lower costs and better results. Community organisations also use volunteers and take great pride in their local area.
Buildings considered for community asset transfer include libraries, community centres and leisure facilities, to name a few, but most sites will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Each organisation wishing to apply needs to meet the following criteria:
- be a charitable or not-for-private-profit organisation such as a registered charity, company limited by guarantee with charitable status, Community Interest Company (CIC), a co-operative or a community benefit Industrial & Provident Society with an asset lock
- generate social, economic or environmental benefits which directly benefit the people of Hartlepool
- have robust systems, governance and policies, as evidenced by a recognised quality mark or by meeting all the basic requirements as set out in the Community Asset Transfer Policy.
- have the capacity to manage the asset and have directors or committee members who have the necessary experience and skills
- contribute towards our corporate and strategic objectives
Each request for community asset transfer is considered on the basis of a written business case, consisting of a detailed business plan and evidence of need, expertise and the relevant quality standard.
Full details can be found in the policy.