Community groups encouraged to bid for transfer of council sites

Article date: February 6th 2025

Community organisations are encouraged to put forward expressions of interest for these sites, as the pioneering programme will help unlock new community led projects, giving residents and groups the chance to take ownership of former council land or buildings and provide services the areas want to see.

The sites to be advanced during 2025 are the former Broadway Leisure Centre, in West Park; Bishop Road playing fields, Windle; and King George V playing fields, Earlestown.

These are the first sites that are being put forward to community groups and support will be available for those interested, with the council working alongside Halton & St Helens Voluntary and Community Action.

Councillor Richard McCauley, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth and Regeneration, said: "The Community Asset Transfer policy is all about empowering our communities to take control of what they want to see in their area and giving them the tools to make that a reality. So, we're very excited that we now have our first opportunities that will help communities become more independent, financially self-sufficient and take ownership of public buildings and land to run them for the benefit of their community."

Councillor Kate Groucutt, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and Leisure, added: "We know that these facilities play a vital role in bringing the communities they are based in together, and there are already several groups who use them regularly. Whilst it is important to remind those parties exploring a Community Asset Transfer that our policy includes for a fair and transparent approach which is open to all, we are also really keen to hear from those already using these sites for their ideas on how they could develop these assets."

The bidding process will run for two weeks and will open from Friday 7^th February 2025. To find out more please see the Community Asset Transfer Policy and to submit a bid visit: Community Asset Transfer