Community Ownership Fund offers chance to 'save local institutions'
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People across Scotland are being given the chance to become owners of at-risk local pubs, theatres, post offices, sports grounds and corner shops under the UK government’s new £150 million Community Ownership Fund.
The government says the fund gives the power "to save the local institutions that bring us together and foster a sense of community".
Voluntary and community organisations across Scotland and the rest of the UK will be able to bid for up to £250,000 matched funding to buy or take over local assets and run them.
Up to £1 million will be available to establish sports clubs or help to buy sports grounds that would be at risk without intervention.
A total of £12.3 million has been set aside for community projects in Scotland, whether they be sporting and leisure facilities, cinemas and theatres, music venues, museums, galleries, parks, pubs, post office buildings or shops.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled details as part of a major speech setting out how the UK government aims to continue to "level up" all regions of the country post-pandemic.
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: "Alongside the Levelling Up, Community Renewal and UK Shared Prosperity funds, the Community Ownership Fund is part of a crucial package of UK government investment to support communities.
"The funds will play an important role as we build back better from the pandemic. I encourage communities across Scotland to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities the Community Ownership Fund provides."
The announcement follows major investment and action from the UK government to level up opportunity and prosperity across all areas of the country, including through the £4.8 billion Levelling Up Fund and the £220 million Community Renewal Fund.
The UK government will undertake a series of information events with communities, the voluntary and community sector and local authorities in all parts of the UK. The first bidding round closes on August 13, with another seven bidding rounds expected to take place over the next four years.
