Hyslop Welcomes Greater Powers for Communities
Fiona Hyslop, Linlithgow Constituency MSP, has welcomed the asset transfer section of the new Community Empowerment Act which has come into force yesterday. (Monday 23rd January)
The new law will make it easier for communities in Scotland to take over land or buildings that are currently in public ownership.
Fiona commented;
“The asset transfer section of the Community Empowerment Act (Scotland) 2015, will allow community-led organisations to request to buy, lease or use any land or buildings belonging to local councils, Scottish Ministers, and a range of other public bodies.
“When this Bill was going through parliament, the then Minister for Local Government, Marco Biagi visited Linlithgow to meet with local organisations and businesses looking to feed ideas into the legislation.
“I believe It is our local people who understand local towns best and as residents who live and work in their communities, they are perfectly placed to determine where improvements may be needed.
“Taking over land or buildings can give communities the opportunity to deliver services, provide jobs, skills and training. This can then generate income locally and builds a sense of community and so I am happy to highlight this part of the legislation which has come into force today.”
ENDs
Background
Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, and associated secondary legislation, comes into force on 23 January 2017. Asset transfer requests can be made from today.
Guidance has been published for both relevant authorities and community transfer bodies, along with a summary guide in simple language.
Links to all documents and legislation are available at http://www.gov.scot/Topics/People/engage/AssetTransfer