As the UK gears up for the election, we’re asking all political parties to back the things that make local places thrive: the buildings, spaces and services people rely on every day.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen just how important community assets are. During the pandemic and throughout household cost-of-living pressures, local halls, libraries, youth centres and green spaces have kept people connected, supported and safe.

But too many of these places are underfunded, under threat, or disappearing altogether. That needs to change. But this is not just about public money. Local businesses, social investors, and private funders also have a role to play. Government should do what it can to unlock and enable partnership.

Here’s what we think the next government should commit to:

1. Long-term investment

Communities and councils need funding they can count on. Short-term pots and competitive bidding don’t work for long-term planning. We want to see:

• Multi-year funding for councils and combined authorities, so they can plan and deliver key projects properly.
• A joined-up strategy for community infrastructure, tying together housing, public services, and local development.
• Reforms to the Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 agreements, to ensure developer contributions go directly into local priorities.
• Supporting public-private partnerships that align commercial investment with community value — from high street regeneration to shared spaces.

2. Protect and grow community assets

From libraries and leisure centres to green spaces and pubs, places are the heart of our communities. We want to see:

• A stronger Community Right to Bid, with better funding and simpler rules to help local people take ownership of important places.
• A national Community Wealth Fund, using dormant assets to invest in local buildings and services.
• Clearer rules for councils to share information on local assets, and involve local people — including businesses — in decisions.
• Incentives for local businesses and investors to co-invest in community facilities and contribute to shared ownership models.

3. More local control

Communities know what works — but they need the power and resources to act. That includes:

• More financial flexibility for councils and combined authorities to raise and invest money locally.
• Support for community organisations and social enterprises managing local buildings and services.
• More opportunities for local partnerships, where councils, businesses and residents work together on long-term plans.
• Blended finance models that bring together public funds, private investment and philanthropic support, especially for complex regeneration or energy projects.

4. Better digital infrastructure

Strong communities need spaces to connect, online and in person. We’re asking parties to:

• Fund local digital hubs and tackle digital exclusion through skills training and access to devices.
• Recognise the role of community buildings as digital centres, offering support and space for remote work, learning and enterprise.
• Support innovation, exploring how AI and digital tools can help local places thrive, from smarter planning to tailored services.
• Encourage tech partnerships between local authorities, community groups and private firms that promote inclusion and local economic growth.

Investing in local infrastructure isn’t just good for communities, it’s good for business. Strong, connected places attract talent, boost local economies, and create lasting value.

The next government can back community-powered regeneration, with support from both public and private sectors. When local people, councils, businesses and investors pull together, our communities win.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on party manifestos and sharing more with you throughout the election. To take part, join our community here.