Opportunity remains for community groups to take over local buildings
Community groups are being encouraged to consider taking on the running of Falkirk Council-owned buildings that will otherwise close on 1st April this year.
Four buildings currently have no Expressions of Interest (EOI), which means they’ll shut their doors in less than two months' time if groups do not step forward to undertake a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of:
- Camelon Community Education Centre
- Polmont Sports Centre
- Russell Park Pavilion
- Slamannan Community Education Centre, which could transform into a Partnership Centre
Whilst there are ongoing discussions with local groups about these buildings' future, no EOIs have been received for these properties.
Groups interested in progressing an asset transfer are encouraged to submit an EOI as soon as possible.
Doing so will allow the property to remain available for a further six months, giving them time to develop a business plan and submit a formal asset transfer application.
Support on offer
The Council is offering extensive professional and financial assistance to help groups take on and enhance assets they value.
Its CAT team can help groups through the asset transfer process and will be a key point of contact for any support, questions or queries that groups may have.
The Council has also partnered with third-sector organisation, CVS Falkirk who can provide additional support and guidance to interested parties, including:
- Helping groups develop their ideas and develop business plans
- Building capacity, skills, and resilience beyond the transfer
- Signposting to external funding opportunities
As well as establishing a £3 million Capital Enablement Fund to help groups improve properties and unlock match funding, the Council will also ensure buildings are wind, watertight and statutory compliant before being transferred.
CAT is an achievable and realistic option for groups looking to take on and improve buildings. Over the past year, 43 CAT applications and EOIs have been submitted, with 11 CATs approved by the Council to progress.
To date, up to £1,457,450 of enabling funds have been committed to supporting viable community proposals.
Your chance to get involved
If your group is interested in taking on one of these buildings, now is the time to act.
With closures fast approaching, early engagement is essential to access the available support and develop a plan for the future.
The first step is to submit an EOI which can be found on the Council’s website.
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets and Climate, Falkirk Council:
“We understand that taking on a building is a big commitment, but it also brings real opportunities. Groups that step forward can create spaces shaped around local needs, unlocking funding that the Council cannot access to improve facilities, and create something that makes a lasting difference to all who visit and use the building.”
“To help community groups navigate the CAT process, we are providing as much support as possible – both financial and professional – and want to work with any group that sees an opportunity to bring these buildings into community hands and secure their future.”
For more details on the Community Asset Transfer process and the support available, visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/CAT or email: