The Scrutiny Inquiry Panel - Community Assets met on Monday 17 June 2024 to hear from stakeholders who have been involved in the Community Asset Transfer process. The panel discussed the experiences of these stakeholders, with the aim of informing their ongoing inquiry into community assets.

Community Asset Transfer - Round Table Meeting with Stakeholders

The panel held a round table meeting with various stakeholders who have undergone the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) process in Swansea. This session was a key part of the panel's inquiry into community assets, allowing them to gather firsthand accounts and insights.

Those who shared their experiences included representatives from Coed Gwillim Park, Penlan AFC, Underhill Park, and Llanrhidian Higher Community Council. Additionally, the Swansea Council for Voluntary Service (SCVS) provided their perspective. The discussions covered what went well during the transfer process, the challenges faced, and how risks and barriers were overcome. Stakeholders also detailed the guidance, advice, and support they received, particularly concerning funding and grant applications. The community benefits realised since the transfers, as well as any disadvantages or ongoing challenges, were also explored.

The detailed notes from these discussions will be compiled into a findings report for the panel's consideration. The panel also noted the project plan for their inquiry, with the next meeting scheduled for 23 July 2024, which will focus on the legal aspects of Community Asset Transfer and the development of the inquiry's findings report.

The attendees at this meeting included Councillor Stuart Rice (Chair), Councillor Chris Holley OBE, Councillor Allan Jeffery, and Councillor Susan Jones. Other attendees present were Mr Rooke and Mr Daly from Coed Gwillim Park, Mr Hopkins from Penlan AFC, Mr Winspear from Swansea Council for Voluntary Service. Officers present were Geoff Bacon, Head of Property Services; Tracey McNulty, Head of Cultural Services; Mark Wade, Director of Place; David Turner, Asset Manager, Property Services; and Michelle Roberts, Scrutiny Officer. Apologies were received from Councillors E W Fitzgerald, M W Locke, and C L Philpott.