URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4739

Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: S&R 12/3/24 agreed to submit revised Community Buildings Policy within 12 months 

Content: S&R 12/3/24 agreed to submit revised Community Buildings Policy within 12 months  8.1 The Executive Director of City Futures submitted a report providing an update and recommendations in respect of Community Buildings & Community Asset Transfer (CAT), on work undertaken over the past 15 months, including extensive engagement with the third sector, reviewing the set of 14 historical CAT related enquires; and undertaking a pilot in the South Local Area Committee (LAC) area.  It was reported that this has resulted in a proposed new Community Asset Transfer Policy and a significant caseload of CAT requests. Further consideration is required regarding the level of activity beyond the specific transfers proposed in this report that can be sustained going forward from existing council resources. Any new pressure identified would need to be considered as part of the wider budget planning process. An update on the approach to sessional charging and bookings for Council managed community buildings was also included.   The report also set out a progress update on the review work and next steps in respect of 22 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Supported Community Buildings.     8.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That Strategy and Resources Policy Committee:-       (a) approve the proposed “Sheffield City Council Community Asset Transfer Policy” as attached to the report now submitted;   (b) note the update on the charging policy and approach for sessional use of Sheffield City Council managed community buildings; and   (c) note the progress made for the review of the 22 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) supported community buildings.     8.3 Reasons for Decision     8.3.1 The new Community Asset Transfer Policy reflects extensive engagement with third sector organisations over the past 15 months, alongside discussions to understand national best practice and learning. It presents an approach based on fairness and transparency, aiming to be progressive, whilst managing the associated risks for the council, third sector and communities.  It is an important step in our work on community buildings.     8.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     8.4.1 Alternative Option 1 - Continue with the current Community Buildings Policy approved in March 2024   Why was it rejected? The policy did not fully reflect the needs of third sector organisations in the city and contained limitations which could impact the viability and sustainability of asset transfer agreements.     8.4.2 Alternative Option 2 - Option: To not have Community Asset Transfer Policy   Why was it rejected? Done well, community asset transfer can bring many benefits to third sector organisation, communities and the council. Despite the challenging context, there is clearly a high level of demand for these conversations, and the Council is committed to working in partnership to ensure we have accessible and sustainable community spaces, that provide the support and activities local people and communities need to live happy, well and connected lives.  

Date of Decision: November 12, 2025