Parish Council Adopts Community Use Policy for Parish-Owned Premises and Land

Published: 07 August 2025

The Parish Council is pleased to announce the adoption of its Community Use Policy, setting out clear procedures for the use of parish-owned or managed land and facilities. This formal policy builds on our existing practice of allowing community use, creating a transparent framework that ensures fair access, encourages local engagement and protects parish assets for future generations.

The policy applies to one-off events, regular bookings and ongoing activities by eligible local organisations. These include resident associations, charities, voluntary groups, youth and cultural organisations, faith groups running non-denominational community-focused activities and other not-for-profit initiatives that demonstrate clear community benefit.

By formalising the process, the Council can better support the positive work of local groups while ensuring spaces are used in a way that is sustainable, inclusive and beneficial to the parish as a whole.

We warmly invite eligible groups to apply and make use of our parish spaces whether for events, classes, activities or projects that bring people together.

Why We’ve Introduced This Policy

Parish spaces have always been available for community use, but until now there hasn’t been a formal set of rules to guide how they’re shared.
Our new Community Use Policy means:

• Everyone knows who can apply and how decisions are made.

• Access is fair and consistent for all eligible groups.

• Parish assets are cared for so they remain available for years to come.

• Activities bring the most benefit to the whole community.

In short, the same welcome now with clearer guidance.

How to Apply

1. Check you’re eligible
   Your group must be community-based, not-for-profit and fall within the eligible categories in our Community Use Policy.

2. Review the policy
   Read the full policy on our website to understand the guidelines, responsibilities and any conditions of use.

3. Prepare your details

   Have ready:

   • Name of your group and contact information

   • Type of activity or event

   • Preferred date(s) and time(s)

   • Any equipment or facilities you’ll be using or need

   • Expected number of participants and the community benefits for Chigwell residents

4. Complete the application form

   
   The Community Use Policy and application form is found on the Parish website or request a copy from the Parish Offices

5. Submit your application
   Email, post or hand-deliver it to the Parish Council office.

6. Await confirmation
   Officers and Council will review your application against the policy and get back to you as soon as possible.

Tip: Apply early, especially for popular dates