As you may be aware, with Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon in Devon, Mid Devon District Council has been engaging on the possible transfer of local community assets, to protect the local benefits derived from them and to promote social, economic or environmental benefits. As such a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Policy has been developed. It was approved by Mid Devon’s Cabinet on 7 April and approved by Full Council on Wednesday 22 April. Here is a link to the Committee Report Template.

The policy will provide a clear, consistent framework for transferring appropriate Council owned assets to community organisations. The Council is not considering the transfer of operational, commercial or strategic land or properties. The focus is on parks, play areas, open spaces or surplus land and each asset will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The Council will only access enquiries from Town/Parish Councils, CIC’s or Registered Charities and we would appreciate your help to spread the word to such organisations.

To ensure as best as possible that any such transfers are completed ahead of the Shadow Authority being created, and Section 24 of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 applies, a window of opportunity has been created for organisations to submit an expression of interest on specific assets that could potentially be transferred. The scheme closes on Tuesday 30 June 2026. As well as identifying the specific asset (one form per asset), organisations should provide clarification on reasons for the transfer, aims for the asset, and evidence of the resilience in the organisation, the expertise and track record of maintaining / developing such assets.

Once assessed, and supported, the Council will respond with initial Heads of Terms for the basis of the transfer. Once any transfers are agreed, we will work together to ensure the efficient transfer of the asset.

We look forward to receiving your expressions of interest.