A North Yorkshire community hall, which was gifted to residents more than 100 years ago, has been sold off by the trust who looks after it.
The Newby and Scalby Community Hall Trust announced the decision, saying a local food hall company had bought the building.
Campaigners are now lobbying the Charity Commission to intervene in the sale.
MP for Scarborough and Whitby Alison Hulme is in support of her residents. She made the following statement on social media:
Residents, to whom I understand the building was effectively gifted, should not have to fight for basic answers. Serious concerns have been raised, and the community deserves clear, transparent explanations.
Why is the hall being sold?
What alternatives were considered?
What does this mean for local groups who rely on it?
I am now formally writing to the Charity Commission, North Yorkshire Council and the Trust to demand clarity and ensure everyone who has written to me receives the information they are entitled to.
No blame rests with the proposed purchasers Wilson’s, who I’m certain will have acted in good faith.
It’s time for transparency and accountability from the Trust, though.
