Author: Bethany Rex
Local authorities use the community asset transfer process to encourage groups of people to take on responsibility for the future operation and management of land/buildings they own.
Libraries, swimming pools and community centres are popular candidates for community asset transfer, and more museums are being transferred due to budget cuts. A change in ownership model may also be seen as a way to relaunch struggling museums.
Taking over a museum using community asset transfer is a huge undertaking but it can be enormously rewarding. It is a long-term commitment and a complex process. We have compiled this guide for people who are considering taking part in museum asset transfer and aim to make that process a bit easier to understand and to encourage groups to consider the viability of their plans in the long-term to ensure the best chance of success.
This guide has been developed in collaboration with groups who have direct experience of asset transfer. It combines the knowledge and expertise of people who are involved in the day to day reality of operating a museum under these circumstances with the observations of an academic study on the topic.
Reading this guide should provide you with the information and inspiration necessary to negotiate a fair asset transfer arrangement with your local authority. It does not endorse asset transfer but encourages groups to use their voice to negotiate a viable and sustainable arrangement.
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