Last week, the Liberal Democrats running Woking Borough Council have agreed a Community Asset Transfer Policy.

The policy sets out a framework for the transfer of Council assets, such as community centres and pavilions, to community groups for the benefit of local residents. Additionally, it will allow the Council to make essential budget savings and focus its resources into financing core services.

To support the transition of ownership of these amenities from the Council to the community, funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has been made available.

Putting this policy in place is the first step in ensuring the doors to our valuable community spaces remain open and can continue to serve residents.

The policy sets out a framework which will enable community groups in Woking to take over running the community assets to best meet the needs of local residents. It provides a way to support growth and change in our voluntary and community sectors.

Following the public consultation last autumn, the Council received a good number of expressions of interest from local groups looking to get involved. I am pleased with the positive initial approaches that the Borough Council has received. It demonstrates the level of interest and community spirit that we have here in Woking.

We remain very keen to hear from other enterprises too, as we look to match our assets to the most suitable owner. If you know of a community group who may be interested in taking responsibility for one of our public assets, please do get in touch with the Council.