‘This is a significant and welcome commitment…’ We’ve released a statement in response to the Welsh Government’s plans to introduce legislation on a Community Right to Buy.
Following calls from WCVA and voluntary organisations from across Wales in our voluntary sector manifesto, we’re thrilled that a Community Right to Buy will be one of the first Bills brought before the new Senedd.
The announcement was made by Welsh Government on 14 July 2026, here’s a statement from WCVA on the news.
WCVA STATEMENT ON COMMUNITY RIGHT TO BUY
WCVA welcomes Community Right to Buy commitment
WCVA welcomes the Welsh Government’s announcement that legislation to establish a Community Right to Buy will be among the first Bills brought before the new Senedd.
A Community Right to Buy was a core proposal in WCVA’s voluntary sector manifesto and has been a long-standing call from WCVA and voluntary organisations across Wales. Making it an early legislative priority demonstrates clear intent to give communities greater power to protect the buildings, land and spaces that matter to them.
The legislation must be developed in genuine partnership with communities and the voluntary sector, recognising them as equal partners and drawing on their experience and expertise to ensure the new right works in practice.
Alongside this, communities must also be able to access the advice, finance and practical support needed to acquire assets and manage them successfully for the long term. This requires a joined-up approach across government and the voluntary sector that gives communities the tools and capacity to shape resilient places, strengthen local economies and improve wellbeing.
Lindsay Cordery Bruce, Chief Executive of WCVA, said:
‘This is a significant and welcome commitment. A meaningful Community Right to Buy could help keep vital assets in community use and give people greater control over the future of their places.
‘WCVA looks forward to working with the Welsh Government and all parties in the Senedd to develop ambitious, practical legislation that works for communities across Wales.’
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