Agenda and minutes

To consider the nomination to enter the Ship Inn, Sandside onto the list of successful nominations of Assets of Community Value.

Summary

Consideration was given to the entry of the Ship Inn, Sandside onto the list of successful nominations as an Asset of Community Value. The Ship Inn Community Action Group (SICAG) had submitted the nomination in accordance with Section 89 (2)(b)(iii) of the Localism Act 2011.

The Ship Inn had been closed undergoing building work since November 2020 but was a historic pub which served as a popular meeting destination for local residents and visitors to the area.

Section 88 of the Localism Act 2011 set out those uses of land which may result in a property being considered as an asset of community value, including non-ancillary uses and those that further (or have recently furthered) either the social wellbeing or social interests of the local community. The nomination referred to the importance of the Ship Inn in providing social benefit to the community through a socialising and interaction with others and noted a list of activities and amenities, which were provided by the Ship Inn.

The nomination considered the loss of the pub as a negative impact on the community, with no similar facility within the local area to provide a central hub for local knowledge as well as contributing towards reducing isolation. There was a considerable amount of interest within the local community to see the Ship Inn reopen to locals and visitors alike.

It was considered that the Ship Inn met the criteria necessary to be accepted as an asset of community value. The evidence indicated that in the recent past the use of the property as a public house furthered the social wellbeing of the community who could use it as a place to socialise and hold events. Based on the information provided, it was considered that it might be realistic to think that there was a time in the next five years where there could be another non-ancillary use of the property. It was also clear that the nomination was in the spirit of the legislation, which gives communities the right to nominate assets.

Decision

RESOLVED – That the Ship Inn, Sandside be entered on to South Lakeland District Council’s list of successful nominations as an Asset of Community Value.

Reason for Decision

This decision links to the Council Plan priority in delivering balanced communities, it works with communities in reducing 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.