Shropshire Council launches new policy to empower town and parish councils
Shropshire Council has approved a new Town and Parish Council Asset Transfer Policy, setting out a clear and transparent framework to support the transfer of council‑owned land and buildings to town and parish councils across the county.
The policy is designed to strengthen local decision‑making, protect valued community assets, and enable town and parish councils to take a more active role in managing buildings and spaces that matter most to their communities.
Under the new approach, asset transfers will be considered where there is a clear and ongoing community benefit, where local councils can demonstrate the capacity to manage the asset sustainably, and where proposals align with Shropshire Council’s wider strategic priorities.
Leasehold transfers of up to 99 years will help to safeguard public assets for future generations while still enabling local councils to invest, improve facilities, and deliver services locally.
By enabling town and parish councils to take ownership or long‑term control of local assets, the policy supports:
- Greater local accountability and democratic control
- Improved protection of valued community buildings and spaces
- Increased opportunities for community‑led services and investment
- Long‑term sustainability of assets that might otherwise be at risk
Alex Wagner, deputy Leader of Shropshire Council. said:
“Town and parish councils are at the heart of their communities, and they are often best placed to understand how local buildings and spaces can be used to meet local needs. This new policy provides a clear, fair and supportive framework that helps communities take greater ownership of their future, while ensuring that public assets are managed responsibly and sustainably for the benefit of residents across Shropshire.”
Guidance, templates and an Expression of Interest process will be available online, with dedicated officer support available to town and parish Councils considering an asset transfer.
The new policy was approved at the Cabinet meeting on 11 February [2026].
