Information

To consider the nomination to enter Stony, Hazel Wood, Rusland onto the lit of successful nominations of Assets of Community Value.

Summary

Consideration was given to the entry of Stony Hazel Woods, Rusland onto the list of successful nominations of Assets of Community Value.

The nomination stated that the community gained health benefits, through access to the woods for outdoor exercise, educational benefits through the Rusland Trust Schemes and cultural benefits through a shared local resource. Furthermore the asset offered numerous physical and mental health benefits and brought an increase of community cohesion. The report noted that the asset did improve social wellbeing and interest of the local community.

Stony Hazel Woods had previously been listed as an asset of community value on the Council’s list community asset register and was delisted in September 2022 when the five year listing period had expired. The nomination stated that the community felt strongly that the asset should be listed as an asset of community value, as evidenced by the policies adopted in the Colton Parish Community Led Plan which stated that the asset could continue to be used in the beneficial ways set out in the nomination indefinitely.

It was considered that Stony Hazel Woods met the criteria necessary to be accepted as an asset of community value. The evidence that had been provided indicated that the use of the land as a publicly accessible area of woodland, which was not an ancillary use of the land, furthered the social wellbeing of the community who could use it as a place to exercise, join in with community activities and relax. It was considered that it was realistic to think that the asset can continue to operate in a way that further social wellbeing or interests of the local community, it was clear that the nomination was in the spirit of the legislation that gave the community the right to nominate assets.

Decision

RESOLVED – That the Stony Hazel Woods, Rusland be entered onto South Lakeland District Council’s list of successful nominations of Assets of Community Value.

Reasons for Decision

The decision was made as the nomination met the required legislation, and links to the Council Plan Priority of “delivering a balance community” by working with communities to reduce isolation and loneliness.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

The alternative option is to decline the nomination. The officers who have assessed the nomination in this case feel that the criteria in the legislation have been met and that the listing is justified on the basis of the information received. Section 88 of the Localism Act states that it is a decision for the authority whether or not the criteria are met.