A charity is being forced to relocate following Enfield Council’s announcement seven libraries are set to close in a bid to save £500,000 per year.
One of the libraries facing closure is the John Jackson Library, the current headquarters of Age UK Enfield.
The charity is in ongoing discussions with the council about moving to the Rose Taylor Centre in Brimsdown, 30 minutes away on public transport from their current location.
Enfield Age UK’s interim CEO Lesley King-Lewis said: “The recent announcement confirming the closure of the John Jackson Library in Bush Hill Park is naturally disappointing not just for us, but for all those in the area who regularly use its facilities.”
This sentiment was reiterated by Gordon Tweddle, 77, who regularly attends and helps with Age UK events.
Tweddle said: “I do think it’s wrong in a sense because these are hubs where people go.
“Not only pensioners, I’m talking people in these areas they meet up, kiddies go there to look at the books.
“I think it’s a shame that so many of them have to close.”
Both Tweddle and Age UK Enfield understood the financial reasoning behind the closure as the buildings hold significant monetary value.
The sale of the libraries could bring in £3.85million and save £4.5million in maintenance fees over a ten-year period, according to Time Out.
Budgetary pressures and a decline in demand were cited as reasons for the closures by the Labour-run council.
Council leader Ergin Erbil said: “Libraries are the heart of our communities, and we want to make sure they continue to provide a fantastic range of services for our communities.
“While we have had to make some tough decisions to protect our financial future, I am confident this strategy strikes the right balance between good financial management and maintaining quality and wide-ranging library services for all.”
Age UK are asking for donations to ensure a smooth transition to their new base at the Rose Taylor Centre, which the charity hope will include a dementia day-care centre.
Featured image credit: Age UK Enfield
Photo credit: Gordon Tweddle
Join the discussion