ORPINGTON: Library relocation agreed 'in principle' (From News Shopper)

ORPINGTON: Library relocation agreed 'in principle'

8:40am Monday 9th November 2009

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A £1.9M scheme to move a town’s library has been agreed ‘in principle’ by councillors despite protests from users.

Bromley Council is proposing to move it from its current site in The Priory, Church Hill, Orpington, to the ground and first floor of the council building at The Walnuts.

The idea of relocating the library was mooted in the Orpington Masterplan, which was published by Bromley Council in March 2008.

It was developed after the council had consulted residents about their views on the borough’s town centres in 2006 and Orpington was seen as being run down and in need of investment.

The council believes moving the library would make the College Square area more attractive and busier.

Plans do not include any more shelves for books or study spaces than are in the current library but the number of public computers would be increased from 13 to 20.

Speaking at an executive committee meeting, council leader Councillor Stephen Carr said: “The proposed changes, both physical and from a service perspective, will seek to position the new library at the heart of the local community, enhancing the character of the square while providing a catalyst for change and renewal.”

Members of the executive agreed the idea of moving the library ‘in principle’ on Wednesday (November 4) and it must now get approval from a planning committee and be agreed by full council.

Despite the agreement protestors have vowed to continue their fight against the move and want people who are against the plan to contact their ward councillors.

Protestors say the council is trying to put the application through on the quiet and believe consultation about the issue has been inadequate.

They also say the proposed location is not suitable for a library because it is close to the college and the market.

The planning application will be considered at a committee meeting on November 26 and if approved will be discussed at full council on December 15.

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