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Written question asked by Simon Opher (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 April 2026 (named day). It was answered by Alison McGovern (Labour) on Monday, 13 April 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Community Assets

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has issued guidance to local authorities undergoing Local Government Reorganisation on the transfer or sale of assets to community groups.

Answer

During the local government reorganisation process, councils are expected to continue to operate on a business-as-usual basis. Assets and liabilities remain locally managed by councils until reorganisation is complete. Decisions about the disposal or transfer of assets, including to community or voluntary groups, are matters for individual local authorities to determine.

The Government has issued explanatory guidance to councils undergoing local government reorganisation on financial and asset‑related decision making and has been clear that councils should take a responsible approach to such decisions and avoid actions that could jeopardise the financial sustainability of successor authorities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
123513
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Local government Property transfer Reorganisation Community assets
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk