Empowering Communities through Community Asset Transfer (CAT): A Design Guide for Preserving
and Regenerating Heritage at Risk in Northern Ireland
Abstract
The fate of 762 heritage assets recorded on the Heritage at Risk Register NI is becoming increasingly
precarious. In Northern Ireland, the preservation and revitalisation of local heritage at risk is a
pressing concern, with numerous historic listed buildings and monuments facing potential loss due
to neglect and lack of resources, and with continued dereliction, they may become beyond
salvageable. This study explores how heritage at risk can be preserved and reused under the
management of local communities through the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) model.
The main objective of the research is to investigate the effectiveness of CAT as a regeneration tool in
Northern Ireland. By reviewing literature on the inception and theory of CAT, with reference to
policies enacted in England and Scotland and those developed by local government departments,
and by analysing the restoration of the Bangor Courthouse, Co. Down as a prospective practical
model that could be followed, the goal is to highlight the potential of CAT to enhance community
engagement and empower communities to take ownership and stewardship of their heritage assets.
A primary focus of the research is to analyse the roles of local communities and government
departments in the CAT process, informed by data gathered through qualitative interviews, with
specific emphasis on their collaboration. The ultimate outcome of this research is to develop a set of
comprehensive and innovative design guidelines which will equip communities and stakeholders
with strategies and recommendations towards launching heritage preservation endeavours, with the
potential to contribute to successful community-driven regeneration initiatives.
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