This document summarises the key findings of a study focused on community governance and prospects for its application in mixed tenure areas. The prime objective of the study was to consider different models of community-level governance currently in use across the country.

The aim was to establish whether there were governance mechanisms that could empower residents to be actively involved in their neighbourhood, and could also cross the tenure divide between tenants and part and full owners. The study considered in detail the different legal models that exist for residents' involvement in community governance, and evaluated their effectiveness.

In recent years, the importance of building involvement at neighbourhood level has been recognised. The neighbourhood has become a priority for action, particularly through the work of the Social Exclusion Unit, the New Deal for Communities and the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal Unit.

Mixed tenure neighbourhoods are increasing. Large estates of exclusively social rented dwellings are no longer being built. Right to Buy sales are altering tenure mix on existing estates. Where new neighbourhoods are being built, diversification of tenure has become a key ingredient.

The research team visited a number of areas to assess whether there were mechanisms of neighbourhood involvement that sought to span tenures, and if so how effectively they achieved their aims.

The research concludes that it is possible to draw out a set of principles which could provide a model for community-based governance in a mixed tenure neighbourhood. It recommends the use of an independent legal vehicle to facilitate residents' involvement in governance.

To maximise accountability for residents on the board of the new organisation, the research further recommends the use of direct elections across the neighbourhood.

The research also emphasises the importance of involving all the relevant stakeholders in a given neighbourhood in the governance vehicle. It is important for all involved to agree on a clear vision and purpose.

Joseph Rowntree Foundation
publications@jrf.org.uk

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//2002

Anthony Collins Solicitors: Martin Knox, David Alcock, Anna Roderick and John Iles

research

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Citizens' participation