Lambeth Council buildings could be handed over to local groups under a new initiative launched by the Government on Monday.

The council is one of four in London who have asked for help on how to transfer more local buildings into community ownership.

Lambeth could hand over buildings as gifts to community groups, sell them at below market prices, or keep them off the market while a local project develops its plans and secures the funding.

The tougher economic climate has led to renewed interest in communities maintaining local assets, according to Hazel Blears MP - who visited Stockwell on Monday to discuss how to take over a local building with the Stockwell Women’s Achievement Network.

Ms Blears used the visit to announce a single national advice line – 0845 345 4564 – for anyone wishing to find out about the scheme.

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