How to Save a Community Building: Insights from Trinity’s CEO Emma Harvey

CEO of Trinity Emma Harvey discusses the intricacies of acquiring and managing community buildings. She shares her experiences running a capital campaign for the Jacobs Wells Road building in Bristol, emphasising the importance of community asset transfers, local engagement, feasibility studies, and phased fundraising. Harvey also highlights the challenges and benefits of community ownership, the importance of political and financial support, and strategies for advocacy and consultation. This insightful conversation provides a detailed roadmap for anyone interested in preserving community assets.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
00:32 Understanding Capital Campaigns and Community Assets
02:13 Challenges and Importance of Community Buildings
04:41 Benefits of Owning Community Buildings
09:54 Starting the Jacobs Wells Building Campaign
10:58 Community Consultation and Feasibility Studies
21:36 Securing Funding and Overcoming Obstacles
27:00 Challenges in Acquiring Community Assets
27:27 Timeline of the Campaign
28:02 Funding and Initial Repairs
28:30 Philosophy on Building Preservation
29:38 Community Asset Transfer Process
31:02 Empowering Disadvantaged Communities
32:21 Campaigning for Policy Change
33:19 National vs. Local Approaches
34:26 The Importance of Community Spaces
44:28 Competitive Nature of Asset Transfers
45:58 Legislation and Community Rights
50:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement