FAQs
What is a CLT?
Community Land Trusts were originally developed in the USA in the 1960’s and began to appear in the UK in the early 2000’s; there are now more than 500 CLT’s here with more than 12 in Devon. A CLT is not just for affordable housing; other community projects such as communal gardens, shops, pubs and local work places also benefit from being managed by a CLT. Whatever the cause the concept of the CLT remains the same – the projects are run by the local community who want to make a difference to their area and to ensure they remain a local asset for the long term.
CLT’s have a proven track record on the delivery of Affordable Housing; at the time of the formation of TCLT there were 548 CLT’s in the UK, with 1,100 completed homes and a further 7,100 in the pipeline.
CLTs are owned and run by local people, the Members. Their assets – land, houses etc – must be used for a community benefit. They cannot distribute profits, but must use any made for a community benefit.
Thorverton CLT, like the great majority of CLTs, is a Community Benefit Society (CBS), which is best suited to our needs. These CLTs are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
TCLT has joined the Community Land Trust Network, the UK wide association: communitylandtrusts.org.uk
What is ‘Affordable Housing’?
In very brief terms, Affordable Housing is usually either for rent or for sale at a discount on the market value.
The rented housing would be at below market rents; either what is known as ‘affordable’ rent, which is 80% of market rents, or ‘social’ rent, which is about 60% of market rents.
The housing for discounted sale would also be at below market levels, and established in a way which ensures that ‘below-market-levels’ is protected for the long-term, not just benefitting the first occupier. There are a number of different types of low cost home ownership around – for example ‘shared-ownership’ and ‘shared equity’.
The CLT will need to decide on the final mix of options, based on an updated assessment of needs.
Will local people get priority when homes are allocated?
It will be important to establish an enforceable arrangement into the planning consent for the project; a local example of where this has worked very well is Upton Pyne Community Land Trust which has been able to fill all their vacancies with village residents.
If the waiting list has no local applicants for future vacancies it is likely they will only be offered to those in the adjacent parishes.
How do I get on the waiting list?
The arrangements for the allocation of homes has not been finalised, but it is likely it will be through Devon Home Choice; please contact us for further details.
How is Thorverton CLT run?
Its Members are the ultimate controlling group. They elect 5-12 Directors, who are then responsible for the day-to-day running of the CLT.
How can I join the CLT?
Any local resident can become a Member – it costs just £1 – as long as they support the CLT’s overall objectives and meet some other very basic criteria. For membership information see the ‘My CLT’ section.
Can I become a director?
Yes, members of the CLT appoint the Directors.
Who are the current CLT directors?
Details are shown on the document here
What is a Housing Association? (also called a Registered Provider)
A Housing Association is a non-profit regulated organisation that provides Affordable Housing in the UK, supplementing the role traditionally provided by Council Housing. CLTs can choose whether to work ‘in partnership’ with an existing Housing Association or instead become a Housing Association in their own right.