On Saturday 9th August, Walkden Library will close for the final time on the current site. The new Library will open at the “Gateway” Centre on Bolton Road on 1st September - obviously time is needed to transfer the books and equipment over and get the staff up to speed with the new building. I’ve asked that other local libraries (Little Hulton, Worsley Village and Boothstown) should have their opening hours increased during the time that Walkden Library is shut to ensure that services can still be provided, but I’ve had no response to that request as yet.
Of more concern is the future of the current library site. I’ve asked repeatedly over the last few years about any proposals for the site and at no point have I received any answer. The Council have now decided - unilaterally - that the plot should be sold. I’m appalled that this decision can be taken without any consultation with local residents and ward Councillors. I’m even more appalled that after years of asking about the future of the site on behalf of local residents I’m now told the decision was taken years ago - why was I not told this? Why were local residents not told?
There are very few community facilities in Walkden South and I would prefer that the current site be maintained for community use - I know that the Youth Service has expressed an interest in the plot in the past. Even if it turns out that selling the land is the best option, local residents should have been kept informed about and involved with the deicision.
As it stands, we will end up with a repeat of the Pembroke Halls and Market Hall situation, where the local community lose their local facilities and the money then disappears into a typical Salford Labour black hole never to be seen again - and certainly not used for the benefit of residents in Walkden.
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