Local MP Welcomes Plan For New Seaford Library… But Wants To See The Small Print

4.40.40pm GMT Mon 19th Jan 2009

Seaford's MP Norman Baker has today warmly welcomed plans being put forward by East Sussex County Council to replace the present overstretched library in Seaford.

Plans being submitted to the council's cabinet meeting on 26 January recommend the demolition of the present library, and its reconstruction on site, in a brand new building which would combine a new, bigger library with relocated facilities from Homefield Place, a county adult social care facility in the town. It is likely that rebuilding would begin in two years' time.

Norman says: "This is a very welcome step forward as far as library users are concerned. As patron of the Friends of Seaford Library, I know just how much clamour there has been for a new improved library. While the staff do their very best in the present premises, the simple fact is that there is not enough space for what is the 4th most popular library in the county, after Lewes, Eastbourne and Hastings.

"But before getting out the champagne, we need to understand exactly what the implications are for the users of Homefield Place. There must be no diminution in services available to the clients of adult social care as a result of this move. Indeed, I would want the move to enhance provision."

Seaford county councillor and town council leader Jon Freeman adds: "Seaford library is very heavily used so this welcome news. However the proposed changes to Homefield Place and its users need to be tested and I will be raising the matter formally at the next council meeting through the written question provision."