Town Council steps in to deliver library and community centre services

Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council has agreed to commission its own libraries and community centres in response to proposed closures by Birmingham City Council.

Walmley and Boldmere Libraries and Walmley and Mere Green Community Centres are both facing closure due to city council cuts.

But, following a consultation on its priorities last Autumn, the Town Council has agreed to step in to commission its own library and community centre services.

The council says this will include increased days of opening at all libraries in Royal Sutton Coldfield and will ensure at least one library is open every day, Monday to Saturday, across the town.

Under the Town Council’s plans, Mere Green Library will open five days a week (closed on Sunday and Wednesday), Walmley library will open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and Boldmere library will open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Mere Green and Walmley community centres will continue operate as normal.

The Town Council is also looking to bring back the Local History Collection to the town and take on the ownership of Mere Green and Walmley buildings that house the libraries and community centres.

Town Council leader Cllr Simon Ward said: “This marks a significant moment in the development of the Council.

“A Library and Community Centre Service was something we talked to residents about just last year. Whilst the decision of Birmingham City Council to cut these services is disappointing it creates real opportunity for local delivery.  

“I'm pleased we will be supporting increased opening across all three libraries in the Town whilst saving two community centres from closure.”