From the June 09 CALC circular: Communities Secretary, Hazel Blears MP, has unveiled a series of measures to make it easier for people to take control of community assets – from community centres to former schools to theatres. One of the measures is a new advice line – 0845 345 4564 – and a new Asset Transfer Unit which will give local people the information they need to get through any planning, legal and financial barriers to taking over community buildings and other assets. This includes private businesses at risk, such as pubs, post offices and shops. Principal Authorities are encouraged to consider options such as handing over buildings as a gift to a community group, selling at below market price or keeping the building off the market while a local project develops plans and secures funding.  For more information go to www.communities.gov.uk/news/corporate/1213182 and also the Community Assets Programme on the Cabinet Office website.

In particular see the Asset Transfer Unit web site: www.atu.org.uk