Community Ownership Fund 2023-07-10
2023-07-10
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The community ownership fund aims to allocate funds for the preservation of local assets and amenities. There is interest in how effectively these funds are being allocated.
What progress has been made on allocating funds through the community ownership fund? The community ownership fund provides significant potential for organisations across the UK to secure funding for critical assets, including those at risk in Clwyd South.
The community ownership fund has awarded £36.8 million to 150 projects across the UK, including £25.5 million in England, £5.2 million in Scotland, £3.2 million in Wales and £3 million in Northern Ireland. Positive changes include extending maximum funding from £250,000 to £1 million, reducing match funding requirements, and allowing applications from parish councils.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Recent changes to the community ownership fund were announced, which could significantly impact potential applicants. The question seeks clarification on these changes and their implications.
Does the Minister agree that the community ownership fund provides tremendous potential for community organisations in Clwyd South and elsewhere to take ownership of assets at risk? Positive changes to the bidding round have been announced on May 12, including extending maximum funding from £250,000 to £1 million.
I agree that the community ownership fund has huge potential in Clwyd South and across the UK. Changes include extending maximum funding from £250,000 to £1 million, reducing match funding requirements, and allowing applications from parish councils. The current bidding round window 1 will close on July 12.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Udney Park Community Fields Foundation is working to bring back community use of the playing fields and pavilion in Teddington and Twickenham. The site has deteriorated since being purchased by developers eight years ago.
The community ownership fund could support the Udney Park Community Fields Foundation, which is striving to preserve Udney Park for local sports organisations. As the site goes back on the market, will the Minister look favourably on any application from the foundation?
I cannot comment on individual bids, but the hon. Lady makes a compelling case and relevant Ministers are happy to meet her.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister avoided commenting on the specific application due to rules against discussing individual cases.
I Cannot Comment On Individual Bids
Response accuracy