Kirklees Together

On Tuesday 9^th September, Kirklees Council’s Cabinet approved proposals for the Community Asset Transfer of the Hudawi Centre and DRAM Sports & Community Centre.

The control and management of these significant community assets will now transfer to the local community with both in line for exciting new futures under the direction of two enthusiastic and committed Community Interest Companies.

The Hudawi and DRAM centres join a list of 27 assets approved by Cabinet since the introduction of the Councils Asset Transfer Policy in 2013. The policy was put in place to enable and empower community organisations to transfer assets from the council so they can better serve the needs of local communities.

Communities and local residents have been consulted as part of the asset transfer process and both organisations are positive that their proposals reflect local needs and priorities. They plan to create vibrant community hubs, accessible to all, that will provide a wide range of services, events and activities.

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Growth and Regeneration, said:

‘’I am pleased to see these proposals have been approved. Community Asset Transfers are a fantastic opportunity to give communities more control over local assets enabling them to create community hubs, where the needs of the community are front and centre. I am positive that both asset transfers will enable the local communities to develop these assets further and go from strength to strength over the next few years.

I would also like to thank both CICs’ involved for their hard work and support to make these transfers happen and I wish them all the best for the future.’’

A spokesperson from the Black Business Support Agency said:

‘We are delighted that Members of Kirklees cabinet have made this decision.  As the centre transitions back to community ownership, its significance will only grow. Preserving our distinct cultural identity, our mission is to open the doors to all.

I would like to thank all the members of the community that have supported and engaged with us on our journey to where we are today. Our success is your success. Look out for further announcements and updates over the next few months’’

Antony Collins, Director of the CIC and Chairman of Moldgreen ARLFC, said:

“The asset transfer approval is a huge step forward for our Club and the wider community. It will not only support our ambitions to progress through the rugby league pyramid but also secure a vital community hub for the local area. This building will provide a space for health and wellbeing initiatives, physical activities, community projects, and festivals, ensuring it becomes a resource that benefits far more than just the Rugby Club – it will be a true asset for everyone in the community.”

Now these proposals have both been approved, the council will now move to complete the legal processes to transfer the assets to the Black Business Support Agency for the Hudawi Centre and Moldgreen ARLFC (DRAM) Holdings Community Interest Company for the DRAM centre.