Successful CLT Round Table at London School of Mosaics

On July 9th, 2024, NW3 CLT hosted a round table discussion at the London School of Mosaics, bringing together representatives from three Community Land Trusts (CLTs) to discuss viability, share experiences, and learn from each other’s successes and challenges. The event was attended by 16 participants, including 12 from NW3 CLT, two from RUSS, and two from London CLT’s Citizens House (a representative and a tenant).

Event Highlights

The meeting began with introductions and presentations from each of the CLTs:

• Janet from Citizens House discussed their 11-home scheme, which sold at 65% of market value and was completed in late 2022/early 2023. The project involved extensive community engagement, from selecting the architect to designing the homes. Despite securing mortgages from Ecology, the project faced high-interest rates, but these did not increase over time.

• Alex, a tenant from London CLT’s Citizens House, shared his positive experience and how the project enabled him to afford a high-quality home. Citizens House has appointed a management agent and is formalising a residents' group.

• Anurag from RUSS explained their 31-home scheme in Lewisham, which included a mix of discounted sales at 80%, shared ownership, and rented homes. The project, developed with significant community involvement, faced delays and required additional funding. RUSS is managed by CDS and is considering becoming a registered provider.

• Rebecca, a RUSS tenant, shared how she completed her flat with the help of other residents, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the community.

• Sanya from NW3 CLT described their 14-flat scheme, with a mix of discounted sale, private sale, and social rental units. The project aims to sell homes at a 50% discount to residents with incomes below £90k, with interest from over six mortgage providers.

Key Discussion Points

Lessons from RUSS:

1. Delays are costly; maintaining a 20% contingency is crucial.

2. Regular turnover of directors can keep project energy high.

3. Early community involvement is essential.

4. Social housing residents should be integrated into the CLT.

5. Newsletters are effective for project updates.

6. Retain funds post-contract for ongoing costs and future projects.

Lessons from Citizens House:

1. Promote the scheme through social media if early allocation isn't possible.

2. Support from local groups like Lewisham Citizens is vital.

3. Having a supportive, senior council member is beneficial.

4. Persistent community engagement can overcome negativity.

5. Schedule member meetings when there are updates.

6. Consider post-contract funding through monthly charges.

Issues for NW3:

1. Limited active membership (20 out of 180) is not unusual.

2. Some neighbourhood opposition requires focused community engagement.

3. Regular newsletters and website updates are needed.

4. Increasing community involvement in the project is crucial.

5. Balancing viability and affordability remains challenging.

6. Fostering a community spirit in mixed-tenure schemes is important.

The round table facilitated invaluable discussions and shared learning among the CLTs. NW3 CLT greatly appreciated Sanya's efforts in organising the event and the contributions from all participants. The insights gained from RUSS and Citizens House will be instrumental in guiding NW3’s future projects. The group agreed to reconvene in the autumn for further informal discussions.

Stay tuned for more updates on our journey towards sustainable and affordable community-led housing.

For more details and upcoming events, visit our website and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

CLT Round table at London School of Mosaics on 9th July 2024