Protestors outside the library in March 2023 Photo: Ray Duff
Folkestone & Hythe District Council has voiced its preference for keeping the town’s library service at the Grace Hill building. This response comes as part of the public consultation on Kent County Council’s (KCC) proposal to relocate the library.
The eight-week consultation, which concludes today (11 September 2024), sought public input on potential new locations and alternative ideas for the library.
In their official response, the council stated:
“Our first preference is that Kent County Council makes repairs to the Grace Hill building, re-opens Folkestone Library, and co-locates with other services.
“If that cannot happen, our second preference is for KCC to sell Grace Hill and lease back part of the building for the library and registration service.
“If KCC decides against these options, then our preference is for the library service to be retained in Folkestone town centre. However, this option should not be considered without full public disclosure of both the outcome of this consultation and the basis for the final decision made.
“It is only at that point that this council would be able to consider progressing a decision about using Folca for the library and registration services.”
The Grace Hill building has been closed since December 2022 due to safety concerns for staff and visitors.