On the 21st of June the CLT Network held a day of learning with sector leaders celebrating the successes and potential of community ownership and creating connections across the community led movement.  

We were very pleased to be able to attend; the day was packed full of relevant and inspirational information. With speakers from charities, think tanks, CLTs, councils, developers and housing associations, sessions focussed on the ambitions and concerns of the community led housing sector.  CLT successes were celebrated, the movement’s ongoing involvement in sustainable retrofitting, urban renewal, land reform and large-scale house building was discussed and the conference speculated on how the CLTN will engage the new government to include community led housing at the centre of its ambitious building plans.

It was especially good to hear from Paul Clarke of Stories who sat on the panel for the High Streets discussion.  Stories are working with Mayday Saxonvale on the community led development that Mayday is hoping that, in the coming weeks, Somerset Council will select as its preferred scheme for the regeneration of Saxonvale.   

Some of the Key Insights from the conference…

Essential Role of Community-Led Housing: Community-led housing should be central to housing development, with the risks of exclusion now outweighing any perceived risks of inclusion.

Sustainable Retrofitting: CLTs are crucial in sustainable retrofitting, integrating renewable energy systems and driving the transition to net zero through community-powered initiatives.

Urban Renewal: CLTs effectively regenerate social housing estates and high streets, building community wealth and fostering pride by giving local people ownership and agency.

Land Reform: The need for broader land reform in England and Wales was emphasised, learning from successful models in Scotland to use land for social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Large-Scale Housebuilding: CLTs can serve as effective stewards in large-scale developments, ensuring inclusivity and community orientation in urban planning.

Rural Housing Partnerships: CLTs have significantly increased the supply of social housing in rural areas, gaining local support in sensitive landscapes and pursuing wider asset-based community development.

Policy Advocacy and Government Engagement: Robust advocacy is needed to position community-led housing at the centre of government building plans.

Economic and Planning Policy Integration: Effective policies are necessary to facilitate the transfer of properties into community ownership.

Partnerships and Collaboration: Strong partnerships enhance the impact and reach of CLT initiatives.

Community Engagement and Empowerment: Continuous community involvement ensures sustainable and widely supported projects.

Social Equity and Inclusion: Community-led housing promotes social equity and inclusion, benefiting diverse and underserved populations.

In conclusion, the insights from the CLT Network Conference resonate strongly with the ongoing efforts of the Frome Area Community Land Trust (FACLT). As we continue our mission to develop affordable, sustainable housing that meets the needs of our local community, the importance of community-led initiatives becomes ever clearer. 

FACLT aims to foster a sense of ownership and pride among residents, ensuring that developments are inclusive and beneficial to all. The conference has reinforced our commitment to advocating for policies that support community-led housing and to building strong partnerships that enhance our impact. 

Together, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant, resilient Frome where everyone has access to secure, affordable homes.

With thanks to the CLT Network for the images.