Community groups could get first refusal to buy local pubs, shops and halls

Community groups in Wales could get a right of first refusal when valued local buildings and land come up for sale, under proposals the Welsh Government has put out for consultation. Siân Gwenllian, the Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, is announcing the Community Right to Buy Scheme in the Senedd today.

How it would work

Community groups could nominate an asset for registration based on the social, cultural or economic benefit it gives the community. Assets that gave that benefit in the past could also qualify where there is a realistic prospect of bringing it back. If the owner of a registered asset then decides to sell, an eligible group would have a right of first refusal and a protected period to develop plans and secure finance. Registering an asset would not force an owner to sell. The government says this could make it easier for groups to own community centres, parks and green spaces, or pubs and shops.

Have your say

The consultation runs until 4 January 2027. Community groups, asset owners, councils, businesses and anyone with an interest can respond at gov.wales. The answers will shape the final policy and the legislation. The release gives no start date for the scheme, and nothing changes for owners until a law is passed.

Ministry of Life in Splott

Ms Gwenllian visited the Ministry of Life in Splott, Cardiff, a youth organisation founded in 2008 that has delivered more than 170 accreditations. Its chief executive, Jonathan Gunter, said owning its building at 95 Broadway had given the team confidence and capacity, and shown funders it was serious about the long term.

"Where an asset matters to a community, local people should have a genuine chance to secure its future and the benefits it brings for generations to come," Ms Gwenllian said.