'Amazing' moment for communities given right to buy for the first time
Ministers say the new law in England gives power to local people who want to help others.
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Notable Quotes
"It's more than a building. It's what it can represent in the future for us and for the families that we're supporting."
— Debbie Taylor , Activist
"This is a real watershed moment, we are thrilled."
— Tony Armstrong , Executive
"Hopefully that will give us more traction to be able to push them to say 'we're going for it again.'"
— Deana Bamford , Activist
"It's safety, stability, a future for people in our communities left with no options when they're in crisis."
— Debbie Taylor , Activist
"This is a real watershed moment, we are thrilled."
— Tony Armstrong , Executive
"Hopefully that will give us more traction to be able to push them to say 'we're going for it again.'"
— Deana Bamford , Activist
Key People
Deana Bamford is involved with the co-operative Coalville CAN, aiming to create community hubs.
President of Soroptimist International Jersey.
Tony Armstrong is the chief executive of Locality, a national network for community-led organisations.
Tags
All Coverage
Ministers say the new law in England gives power to local people who want to help others.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, which received Royal Assent on April 29, 2026, introduces the Community Right to Buy, granting local communities the first right of refusal when important community assets are put up for sale.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act introduces a new 'Community Right to Buy', allowing local groups to purchase community assets unchallenged if they can fund the purchase within 12 months.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill represents a significant shift of power from the government to communities, embedding new ownership rights and providing unprecedented opportunities for local groups to take over buildings in their areas.
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