Folkestone protestors still gather to fight library closure despite Coronation of King Charles III

ByEd

May 7, 2023

Don’t blame the gulls sentiment has taken off Photo: Ray Duff –

Words by Ray Duff – Protestors gathered outside Folkestone Library, on the day of the King’s Coronation, to keep up their fight against Kent County Council’s ongoing plans for the library’s closure due to disrepair.

Drivers passing by showed their support by tooting their horns and earlier another petition signing stall was held in the town centre.

It was revealed that the town petition had now rapidly reached over 1.500 signatures, alongside the online one on KCC’s website which is still open for signing. Copies to sign can also be found at Massimo Ice Cream in Cheriton Place and The Folkestone Bookshop, in Tontine Street.

Library supporters gather again outside Folkestone Library Photo: Ray Duff –

Many of the speakers loudly ridiculed the recent comment from KCC that the problem was down to seagulls nesting. The demonstrators however claimed it was due to many years of ongoing neglect of a Grade II, purpose built Library facility, by the County Council.

Speakers from the new administrations of both the District and Town Council announced they would now be fully backing the fight to restore and re-open the facility. They will be taking immediate action next week to pursue the matter vigorously at County level demanding answers about the Library and its situation, which the protest group say, have so far not been forthcoming.

There are also well-advanced plans for further demonstrations and campaign support events,which can be found on the campaign web and Facebook.