Gazette contributor and regular Library user Ray Duff, was shocked to see a notice in the Cheriton Library updating the schedule of work required on Folkestone Library and pushing back the decision on its future.
Mr Duff said that a decision as to its future was being postponed until ‘around’ the end of March!
Just before Christmas 2022, Kent County Council decided to temporarily close the main library in Folkestone due to ‘urgent Health and Safety reasons’.
The building was to be assessed as to how the problems could be fixed.
Ray said: “KCC claim they are looking to reduce the costs of work required.
“Given KCC’s financial position, the future of Folkestone Library is looking grim!
“I am also aware there are a lot of people who are very upset at the closure and quite a few who are wanting or needing to access the Heritage Room for further studies, and at the moment are being stymied.
“It seems it may now require a campaign to Save Folkestone Library from closure!
“In my view and I know many others feel the same, that Local Councillors; especially at the forthcoming local elections in May; need to pledge to make KCC do all the necessary repair work and re-open Folkestone Library, as well as give a full public account as to why they let a Grade2 Listed building get into such a state.
“Why didn’t Kent County Council check the work Amey undertook 2021/2022?”
Notice displayed in Cheriton Library
