Decision details

The purpose of this decision is to decide whether the land/building should be included as an asset of community value (“ACV”) on the Council’s register of ACVs.

On 24 October 2024 a nomination was received from Toft Parish Council in respect of Toft People’s Hall, School Lane, Toft, Cambridge, CB23 2RE. This is a re-nomination of an asset that is due to be removed from the list on 19 December 2024 in accordance with the legislation following expiry of the listing.

Following consideration of the nomination, Notice of Nomination was sent Cllr Lina Nieto, (for the district Ward of Hardwick) and to the Parish Council acknowledging their nomination and who are also owners of the asset. The nomination was publicised through the Council’s Parish e-bulletin and the Lead Member for Communities was notified.

Officers have considered the nomination along with the feedback received following issue of Notices of Nomination and are satisfied that the non-ancillary and current use of the asset as detailed in the nomination form and accompanying map does further the social well-being, or cultural recreational or sporting interests of the local community.  It is also considered realistic to think there can continue to be non-ancillary use of the asset which will further the social interests of the local community. Therefore, it can be accepted, in accordance with Section 88 (1) of the Localism Act 2011.

Toft People's Hall is a village hall comprising of a kitchen and two small meeting rooms as well as the main hall and outside seating area. The Hall has long served as a communal hub for the people of Toft, facilitating a wide range of activities that enrich social ties and support mental and physical wellbeing. It has recently been upgraded with up-to-the minute facilities and can be hired for private parties and wakes and other private meetings and events.

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings it is used to host a variety of events that are put on by Toft Social Club. These events are open for all residents and include quizzes, bingo, music nights, film nights, meals as well as social drinking.

A Community Cafe is operated on Wednesday Mornings at which a ‘Rhyme-time’ session is held for preschool children. The Hall is also used by the Brownies and Rainbows, a friendship club, a photographer group. Other events include community fundraisers, educational workshops, fitness classes and seasonal celebrations that support local producers, artisans, and businesses.

The Hall also serves as a venue for parish council and community meetings where residents can voice concerns and help make decisions about local issues.

It meets the description of an asset of community value.

The options are:

(a) To accept the nomination and place the asset on the register of assets of community value,

(b) To refuse the nomination and place the asset on the register of unsuccessful nominations

Rejected because the nomination meets the description of an asset of community value.