Protesters outside the library Photo: Ray Duff
A local working group consisting of senior officers and Cabinet members from Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Creative Folkestone and representatives of the Save our Library campaign has been working together in order to safeguard the future of Grace Hill.
Members of the group reacted to the announcement yesterday by Cllr Clair Bell, (KCC cabinet lead for libraries) of a public consultation, seeing this as a step towards finding a positive solution to community library services and to ensuring the future of Grace Hill, as a key community asset.
Save Our Library campaign coordinator Jon O’Connor said:
“This is a welcome commitment – of course the devil is in the detail, but I’m glad that the petition signed by over 3500 people has led to the strength of community feeling being recognised. Our local community partnership proposal offers a good way forward, which is why we have engaged with the County Council on this over the last year.”
Creative Folkestone CEO Alastair Upton said:
“I look forward to further details on this announcement, including proposals for a way forward which combines imagination with strategic opportunity for local people.”
Councillor Mike Blakemore, F&HDC Cabinet member for Community and Collaboration said:
“Kent County Council’s announcement of a public consultation about possible future options for Grace Hill Library is welcome. The district council is committed to listening to residents and improving opportunities to engage. We are pleased that KCC is taking the same approach by seeking the views of those who use the library and value its place in our community.”