Express an interest in a community asset transfer

You don't need to submit an expression of interest before you make a full asset transfer request but it is recommended. This step allows us to help you develop a strong application and iron out any issues before putting substantial effort in to a full application.

The formal expression of interest is designed to tell us:

• your group's structure and purpose
• your experience in project development and main activities
• your roots in the community
• what asset you are interested in and why
• what benefits there will be for the local community

It would be worthwhile talking to our asset transfer lead about your ideas. We'll explain more about the process and give you advice on submitting an application.

• Email communityassettransfer@dumgal.gov.uk
• Call 01387 260247

Who can apply

Only a Community Transfer Body can make an asset transfer request. This is either a community controlled body or a body designated by the Scottish Ministers.

A Community Transfer Body must:

• say what community it speaks for
• allow all people who are part of their community to be members
• have a membership of at least 20
• have a membership mostly made up of people from their community
• use any money it makes for the benefit of their community

Submit an expression of interest

We've developed a form to help you address the different aspects of a transfer and start to gather all the required information:

• Download an expression of interest form [PDF - 916KB]

You'll need to provide:

• contact details
• information about your organisation
• details of the asset your community is interested in
• information on what you want to use asset for
• details of the benefits of asset transfer for your community

Help and support

We have ward officers in your local area who can offer you support and guidance throughout the process.

The Scottish Government have published guidance on community asset transfers , including an easy read summary, and a range of local and national organisations can also help:

• Community Ownership Support Service
• Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway
• Development Trusts Association Scotland
• Scottish Council of Voluntary Organisations

What happens next

We'll check that your group fulfils the basic criteria and that the property is suitable for transfer before making a full assessment of the request.

Our assessment will look at five key aspects:

1. the strength of the outline proposal
2. the standing of the organisation
3. the vision and business plan
4. community support
5. the funding model

We'll let you know the outcome of our assessment and work with you to make any improvements that might be needed to the proposal. We should be able to provide feedback within one month.

You could then submit a full asset transfer request .