Wales Community Right to Buy would give local groups first refusal on pubs, shops and parks
Under the Welsh Government's proposals, community groups could register buildings and land they value and get a protected period to raise money if the owner sells. Views are sought until 4 January 2027.
Community groups in Wales would get the first chance to buy a local pub, shop, park or community centre when its owner decides to sell, under a Community Right to Buy Scheme the Welsh Government has put out to public consultation. Siân Gwenllian, the Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, is announcing the consultation in the Senedd on Tuesday 10 November.
The scheme would work in two stages. First, a community group nominates an asset to be registered because of the social, cultural or economic benefit it brings to the area. Places that used to provide that kind of benefit could also qualify, as long as there is a realistic prospect of bringing it back.
Then, if a registered asset is put up for sale, an eligible group would have a right of first refusal and a protected period to work up its plans and secure the money to buy it.
Registration would not force anyone to sell. The right applies only once an owner has chosen to.
The proposal follows a commitment by First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth on 14 July 2026, when he set out his government's first phase of legislation, to give eligible community groups a legal basis to nominate and register valuable assets. Senedd Research notes that the previous Welsh Government's Community Asset Commission had recommended right to buy legislation covering the public, private and third sectors.
The consultation closes on 4 January 2027. The Welsh Government wants to hear from community groups, asset owners, local authorities, businesses and anyone else with an interest in community ownership. Responses will shape the final policy and the legislation.
