In the Senedd this week, the Welsh Conservatives brought forward an opposition motion recognising the sheer importance of community assets to local communities and called on the Labour Government to “protect community assets by enabling local people to run and expand facilities that benefit the local community”.
With amendments from the Labour Government voted through, the Welsh Conservative amended motion received cross-party support on the floor of the Senedd, highlighting the sheer importance of protecting community assets.
Commenting after the debate, Welsh Conservative Shadow Social Justice Minister, Mark Isherwood MS said
“In our debate this week, I argued that enabling Wales will require the development of a long-term, overarching communities strategy to help empower local people and establish ‘asset-based community development’ as a key principle within community development.
“Unlocking both ‘people’ and ‘physical’ assets, empowering the people of the community and using existing community strengths to build sustainable communities for the future is vitally important.
“The motion passed with an amendment and I am pleased that we are on the correct path to deliver for community groups across Wales.”
Also commenting after the debate, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Local Government, Sam Rowlands MS added:
“Protecting community assets are vital for our local communities up and down Wales. It’s crucial that all action is taken to empower local people.
“It was regretful that the Labour Government continue to raise budgetary restraints as an issue, yet our Councils sit on over £2.75bn in useable reserves.
“Now is the time for the Labour Government to work with our local Councils and ensure community assets are protected and made available for those who rely on them.”
