Assets of community value

What is the community right to bid?

The community right to bid was introduced by Chapter 3 of Part 5 of the Localism Act 2011 (LA 2011) to enable local community groups to nominate buildings or land for listing by the local authority as assets of community value. When buildings or land listed as assets of community value come up for sale or change ownership, a moratorium on the sale of up to six months can be invoked, providing local community groups with an opportunity to bid to buy the asset on the open market.

Importantly, there is no right for the community to buy the

To view the latest version of this document and thousands of others like it, sign-in with LexisNexis or register for a free trial.

TAKE A FREE TRIAL

Latest Planning News

Ofgem approves policy framework for Regional Energy Strategic Plans

Ofgem has published a decision, announcing its approval of the policy framework for Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs), following its July 2024 consultation. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) will oversee the development of 11 RESPs, covering Scotland, Wales, and nine regions in England. The framework outlines the guiding principles, components, governance structures, and boundaries of the RESPs. The RESPs will facilitate coordinated energy planning at national, regional, and local levels by modelling strategies to meet projected energy generation and demand over a ten-year period. They also aim to focus on developing infrastructure needed for decarbonising heating, transport, industrial clusters, and hydrogen plants. NESO plans to consult on the methodology for developing the RESPs in late 2025. Additionally, Ofgem intends to consult on proposed licence changes and guidance to assist NESO and network companies in integrating the RESPs into network planning processes in 2025. Transitional RESPs are expected to be published in early 2026, with the full set anticipated by late 2027.

Dan Corry’s independent review examines Defra’s regulatory framework

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published the findings of Dan Corry’s independent review, which examines whether Defra’s regulatory framework effectively supports economic growth and nature recovery. The review identifies the current system as outdated, inconsistent, and complex, presenting 29 recommendations across five strategic themes. In response, Defra announced plans to expedite the implementation of nine key recommendations, including: (1) appointing a single lead regulator for major infrastructure projects; (2) rapidly reviewing and updating existing environmental compliance guidance; (3) streamlining permit processes, including updating the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016, SI 2016/1154; (4) developing a single planning permit portal for all agencies; (5) establishing a new Defra Infrastructure Board; (6) granting increased autonomy to trusted nature conservation and environmental partners; (7) launching an industry-funded Nature Market Accelerator; (8) publishing new strategic policy statements for all regulators, starting with the Environment Agency and Natural England; and (9) introducing a continuous reform programme for specific regulations. Measures involving financial expenditure will be evaluated during the Spending Review, while those requiring legislative changes will be considered within Defra’s broader legislative priorities.

Welsh Government issues revised TAN 15

The Welsh government has published new planning guidance titled ‘Guidance on The Town and Country Planning (Flood Risk Area Development) (Notification) (Wales) Direction 2025 (WGC 002/2025)’ to better protect communities from flooding. The guidance helps planners assess flood risks from various sources and provides advice on adapting to and living with flood risk. It emphasises the increasing frequency and severity of flooding due to climate change and introduces a risk-based approach using the Flood Map for Planning. Additionally, the revised Technical Advice Note 15 (TAN 15) supplements policies in Planning Policy Wales and Future Wales, focusing on reducing flood risk and developing away from high-risk areas. The new guidance is effective on 1 April 2025, with a transitional period for ongoing applications.

Welsh Government issues building regulations circular on gigabit-ready housing requirements

The Welsh Government has published Building Regulations Circular WGC 001/2025 announcing the Building etc. (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2025, which will come into force on 1 July 2025. The regulations mandate gigabit-ready infrastructure and connections for new dwellings in Wales, with a £2,000 cost cap per dwelling. The amendments introduce new requirements 'RA1' and 'RA2' in Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010, supported by new 'Approved Document R Volumes 1 and 2'. Transitional provisions will apply to building work where notices were given or plans were deposited before the regulations' commencement, on condition that the work starts within 12 months of implementation.