Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow, today welcomed the launch of the Scottish Government’s Community Empowerment and Renewal Consultation.  This consultation will see a Bill introduced which will seek to support communities in achieving their goals and aspirations through taking independent action and by having their voices heard in the decisions that affect their area.

Bob Doris MSP said: "We can all cite public or private buildings that have long since shut their doors and been allowed to fall into disrepair. Sometimes buildings are demolished against the will of the community, many of whom believe that it can still be an important community asset. Often the people of Glasgow have felt powerless in the process. The new Community Empowerment and Renewal Bill consultation process will hopefully result in the Scottish Government legislating to ensure that a right to buy such assets by community groups will be introduced.

Many of Glasgow's primary schools or community centres, which the city council closed, may have benefited from being handed over to community ownership and then developed as a community asset. For example, he former St Gregory's Primary School in Wyndford, now a community Hub, is an example of what can be achieved when the council take heed.  Likewise the community centre in Cadder is another great example of an asset the community fought to save.

"The same can be true of privately owned buildings, currently not being put to use and a community right to buy could be of real benefit.  Councils could also benefit from enhanced compulsory purchase powers, including making it easier for the local authority to intervene and demolish dangerous buildings. I would encourage all interested parties to participate in this consultation".

Note:

The consultation can be accessed via:
www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2012/06/CommEmpower060612