What does the CLT Network do
Lobbying and influencing
The Network wants to ensure that the right conditions are put in place for CLTs to grow and prosper. It lobbies and influences key partners, including Government, to tackle the barriers we know that CLTs face, including:
- Land at an affordable cost
- Development finance for CLTs
- A ready supply of technical advice and support
- Mortgage lending on CLT properties.
Successes so far include:
- Funding under the Homes and Communities Agency Affordable Homes Programme for 2011-15 to be held back over the next 4 years for community-led organisations bringing forward housing development that meets certain criteria, including value for money. For more information see the HCA's FAQs on the Framework.
- A commitment from the Homes and Communities Agency to make the access route for community-led housing organisations proportionate to the risk. the Network will work with the HCA to make sure this is delivered upon.
- A commitment from the Tenant Services Authority and Charity Commission to make the registration process simpler for CLTs.
We are still trying to ensure that:
- The Government, if they provide start-up funding for Community Right to Build, it is made available to all community organisations, regardless of whether they do the Community Right to Build route or use the conventional planning route.
- The Right to Leasehold Enfranchisement, from which community organisations that use the Community Right to Build will be exempt, is extended to all Community Land Trusts. Alongside CDS Cooperatives, we are seeking an amendment to the Localism Bill. This would give CLTs the right to gain exemption from the right to leasehold enfranchisement, something that prevents the CLT from being able to hold the asset in community ownership.
Resources and best practice
The Network provides resources and best practice to CLTs, including the Step by Step Guide and other publications. It is working on providing a range of model policies for CLTs and the CLT Model Rules. For more information see the Resources page.
Training and events
The Network provides a number of training events for CLT practitioners and those who work with CLTs. For more information on the latest events see the Events page.
