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MEDIA RELEASE |
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LOCAL COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS EMBRACE ASSET TRANSFER Wirral Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Simon Holbrook, today commented on the high level of interest shown by local organisations in running community facilities. Under the Community Asset Transfer Policy, a series of reports relating to the transfer of assets to the community were considered by the Council's Cabinet last night in relation to current council facilities at Grange Road West Sports Centre, Bromborough Social Centre, Byrne Avenue Baths and River Streets Community Centre in Birkenhead . Cabinet has previously considered expressions of interest in relation to Pacific Road . Councillor Holbrook, also Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, said, There has been growing recognition of the potential of asset transfer to help local people turn their aspirations for the community into reality. Councillor Holbrook continued , The reports considered by Cabinet show an encouraging level of interest in community asset transfer. This is a very positive sign that the energies of citizens and communities are being engaged and every indication is that this will add value to the services being provided. We must ensure that community organisations can continue to engage in asset transfer, particularly at a time when restrictions on public spending make it difficult for the council to continue to provide these services itself. Councillor Holbrook added, Where local groups own or manage community buildings, it brings people together from different backgrounds to enhance local services. Community run organisations are able to access outside support and funding such as lottery grants, which is not available to council run facilities, to make improvements. The Council can help local groups access this extra funding. All this means that t he services provided at these locations will have a long term, sustainable future ahead in the hands of these organisations. For the 24th September Cabinet Agenda click here For the Community Asset Transfer Policy click here
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