Broomhill and Sharrow Vale Councillor, Brian Holmshaw has called for the restoration of Government funding to help local people take ownership of buildings for community use.
In response to a motion at Sheffield’s Full Council meeting Councillor Holmshaw said,
“The Green Party strongly supports community groups being able to take ownership of assets which are at risk of being lost to the community, and to help essential renovations. These improvements will often be needed if they are to be sustainable for the long-term benefit of the community. We need to strengthen community ownership across the UK and the social infrastructure that helps communities to thrive.
“However there is currently no access to community funds for community organisations. The Labour government cut funding to the Community Ownership Fund last month.
“This decision highlights how Labour is making knee jerk reactions that damage the fabric of our communities. The result of this decision restricts communities in Sheffield from being able to take forward their plans to take on buildings and make them economically viable.
“There was no reason at all to get rid of the Community Ownership Fund. Its purpose was for community organisations to be able to apply for funding to take ownership of assets at risk of loss to their communities. Without this support only wealthier communities will be able to take on community ownership projects. Struggling communities with people on lower incomes will have no public funds to draw upon.
“Incorporated voluntary and community organisations, and parish, town and community councils could apply for Capital funding of up to £2 million for assets. However most awards were under £250,000 and much smaller groups made use of this. But it’s gone now leaving many communities with plans to take on buildings, high and dry.
“The Community Ownership Fund was closed with £15 million still in the pot, something that community businesses, including those in Sheffield, could have made good use of. Improve by all means, but don’t just close access to funding down.
“We are unlikely to get anything more on what’s replacing this scheme until the government spending review in early summer when budgets for government departments are set for the next few years.”
References
Amendments to motions – Sheffield City Council 5/2/25
(Public Pack)Amendments – 5th February 2025 Agenda Supplement for Council, 05/02/2025 14:00
