Jessica Caruth, Project Manager
Minutes:
Councillor Veronica Ward, Cabinet member for culture, leisure, sport, the Olympics and Regeneration (South) explained that consultation on the new library was ongoing. The site in front of the magistrates’ court was the only site being considered. The library would provide educational resources for everyone, a study space, access to IT and information about available council services. The views of local residents were sought on various options which would be firmed up over the weeks ahead.
In response to questions, Councillor Ward made the following points:
· There had never been an alternative site for the library. There wasn’t one available in the centre of Camberwell. Many people were waiting for the new library to be built and opened.
· The new library meant the council would not have to pay around £100,000 per year in rental fees.
Jessica Caruth, Project Manager, responding to questions made the following points:
· The money for the library project was from the council’s capital fund. Cabinet had approved £1.9 million to be set aside. Along with the new library there would be improvements to the public realm in the vicinity of the building.
· The options on the display boards took into account the amount of space needed for the library. The library would be open plan and all on one level.