Welsh Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, Siân Gwenllian has announced the launch of a public consultation on proposals which would give eligible community groups a right of first refusal and a protected period to develop their plans and secure finance when the owner of a registered asset decides to sell.

This means that it will be easier for community groups to owns community assets, like parks, green spaces, community centres and event pubs and shops.

Under the proposed Community Right to Buy Scheme: community groups will be able to nominate assets for registration based on the social, cultural or economic benefit they provide to the community.

Assets that provided community benefit in the past would also be eligible where there is a realistic prospect of bringing that benefit back. If a registered asset is put up for sale, an eligible community group would have a right of first refusal and a protected period in which to pursue a purchase. Registering an asset would not require the owner to sell, as the right would only apply when an owner decides to sell.

Gwenllian recently visited a community hub in Splott, Cardiff, owned by the Ministry of Life to meet staff and young people.

Founded in 2008, the Ministry of Life helps young people develop skills for employment and gain event and project management experience. It has delivered more than 170 accreditations, including Agored Cymru, Community Music Wales and BTEC levels 1, 2 and 3.

Gwenllian said: "Where an asset matters to a community, local people should have a genuine chance to secure its future and the benefits it brings for generations to come.

"Ministry of Life is a brilliant example of what community ownership can achieve, and the kind of organisation these proposals are designed to support. I encourage everyone with an interest to read the consultation and tell us what they think."