Parks and allotments handed to parish councils

Parks, recreation grounds, community buildings and allotments are being handed to town and parish councils by a local authority in Surrey.

Waverley Borough Council said the handovers, under a process called a community asset transfer, would give communities more say over green spaces and facilities.

Sites are being transferred to councils in Farnham, Haslemere, Godalming, Ewhurst and Chiddingfold, following a decision taken earlier this month.

The council said the financial impact was "minimal" and it would now begin preparing legal agreements.

Sites include several recreation grounds in Badshot Lea, Rowledge, Coxcombe, Haslemere and Wrecclesham, allotments in Farnham, community buildings and green spaces in Godalming, along with Chiddingfold Village Green.

Councillor Mark Merryweather said: "These transfers will give communities a stronger voice over the green spaces and facilities they value most.

"By placing them in the hands of local councils, we're protecting their future, supporting local decision making and ensuring these areas continue to thrive."

He added that many town and parish councils were planning improvements, and that the bidders were required to show strong business planning, governance and long term sustainability.

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