Community asset transfer policy 2025

3. This policy sets out Gateshead Council's approach to Community Asset Transfer (CAT). It outlines the principles behind community asset transfers together with details of who is eligible to apply, what support will be provided to assist organisations seeking to take a transfer and how proposals will be assessed.

4. It is anticipated that, by providing this framework, the council will help the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector to take full advantage of the opportunity presented by asset transfer to support them in their objectives whilst promoting their resilience and sustainability in the long term.

5. The council's aim is to ensure that the way its assets are managed strongly underpins its wider corporate aims. The council recognises that the VCSE sector has a vital role to play in delivering corporate goals and objectives, and a strong and sustainable VCSE sector is key in the delivery of services and providing a link with local communities.

6. This policy describes the process the council follow when a CAT is being considered for a property.

The policy is set out in three parts:

Section 1 'Understanding CATs' explains what CATs are, and how the council makes balanced decisions about property assets.

Section 2 'Scope, Eligibility, Principles and Risks of CATs' explains what is included within the scope of CATs and the specific principles that will be applied to them.

Section 3 'The CAT Process' sets out the process of applying for a CAT.

Download the Community asset transfer policy as a PDF (PDF, 1 MB)