THE long-term future of "valued community assets" is set to be secured after Lichfield District Council's cabinet backed proposals.
Sites such as Lichfield City Football Club, the Lichfield Garrick and green space at Coppy Nook in Burntwood were all up for debate at a meeting.
The cabinet approved a series of Community Asset Transfer proposals designed to safeguard important local facilities for future generations.
The largest agreeement will see Lichfield City Football Club granted a new 125-year lease for its Brownsfield Park site.
Darren Leaver, chairman of Lichfield City Football Club said:
"We have worked tirelessly over the last 18 years to develop the football club into something we can all be proud of.
"Securing this 125-year lease provides a solid foundation for the club's future, allowing us to continue growing and delivering a first-class experience for all current and future members for generations to come.
"We would like to thank Lichfield District Council for their continued support and for helping us safeguard an asset that plays such an important role in supporting the Lichfield community."
Cabinet also approved the transfer of land at Coppy Nook Lane to Hammerwich Parish Council.
In addition,a long-term lease arrangement was agreed with the Lichfield Garrick theatre.
Daniel Buckroyd, chief executive and artistic director at Lichfield Garrick said:
"The theatre has been on a transformational journey since management shifted to an independent charity in 2013.
"Over the last few years, we've invested more than £1million in upgrades to the venue, seen our annual audience increase to over 150,000 and worked with a wide range of community groups to ensure that anyone living in the district can experience the joys of live performance.
"Throughout that period, our partnership with Lichfield District Council has underpinned the theatre's success – and securing a 25-year lease extension now means that we can plan for the next phase of the Garrick's development with confidence, ensuring that the venue continues to be at the heart of Lichfield’s cultural life for the foreseeable future."
Further legal and statutory processes linked to the approved transfers will now take place before agreements are formally completed.
Cllr Doug Pullen, leader of Lichfield District Council, said:
"Our communities care deeply about these places and the organisations that run them.
"These decisions are about giving trusted local organisations greater confidence and long-term stability so they can continue investing in facilities that make a real difference to residents’ lives.
"Whether that’s grassroots sport, community recreation or arts and culture, these assets play an important role in bringing people together and supporting strong, active communities across our district."
