Falkirk Council Plans to Transfer Ownership of Over 100 Properties to Communities
Falkirk Council is in the process of reviewing its significant property holdings, with over 100 properties set to be either closed or transferred to community ownership. The strategic property review aims to reduce the council’s ownership of buildings that are in poor condition, not energy efficient, expensive to maintain, and underutilised.
As part of this review, Falkirk Council is considering closing or transferring ownership of 133 buildings. Many facilities have already been earmarked for transfer through Community Asset Transfer agreements, including Grangemouth Sports Stadium, Stenhousemuir Gym, and Banknock Community Centre. These buildings are among the more than 40 facilities across Falkirk district that will be transferred to community groups.
However, not all buildings will be saved from closure. Facilities such as Carron Gymnastics Centre, Camelon Education Centre campus, and Polmont Sports Centre are among those that may face closure as part of the review.
The latest report from Falkirk Council also proposes a fourth phase of the review that will affect 11 additional facilities, including Grangemouth Community Education Unit. The community groups taking over these properties will be responsible for repairs and maintenance, facing challenges in making the buildings more energy efficient and improving facilities.
The cost of repairing and maintaining all the properties identified in the review is estimated to be over £29 million. To support community groups in taking over these premises, funding from sources like the Enablement Fund and the Community Empowerment Fund has been provided.
The property review is part of Falkirk Council’s efforts to make better use of resources, including its libraries. For example, Falkirk Library now serves as a base for council staff, allowing for the closure of other council offices. The report also includes plans to repurpose buildings for various services, such as using Falkirk Library as the Registrars Appointments Hub.
Community groups have been stepping up to take over facilities, with 21 groups already having taken on leases. Despite the challenges, there is hope that buildings like Bowhouse, Broompark, and Slamannan Community Centres may not be lost to the communities.
The full report will be discussed by Falkirk councillors at a meeting on January 30, with live streaming available on Falkirk Council’s YouTube channel.
Insights and Summary:
Falkirk Council’s proactive approach to transferring ownership of properties to communities not only helps in reducing costs but also fosters community engagement and empowerment. By involving local groups in the management and upkeep of these facilities, the council is ensuring that the buildings continue to benefit the community while sharing the responsibility of maintenance. This initiative highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between local government and community organisations in creating sustainable and vibrant neighbourhoods.