They can draw on local energy and knowledge. They can draw on a national
network of know-how. They can access new forms of investment. The result is a
special form of social enterprise – community enterprise. The disused school
becomes workspace units for local traders, the old library is transformed into a
creative industries centre for young people, the town hall is now a sports and
leisure complex, the office units provide a hub for community and voluntary
organisations to share back-office services and reduce costs, the derelict land is
now a flourishing farmers’ market. Surpluses from rents and trading are recycled
back into community enterprise, regeneration and renewal. All creating wealth in
communities and keeping it there’ (LGA Briefing, Spring 2004, p.1).